Espresso is to Italy, what champagne is to France.
Charles Maurice De TalleyrandRead
A court is an assembly of noble and distinguished beggars.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that courts, despite their prestigious image, are ultimately composed of individuals seeking benefits, often resembling beggars.
Charles Maurice De Talleyrand's quote reflects a cynical view of the judicial system, indicating that those who gather in courts, regardless of their titles and status, are fundamentally engaged in a form of pleading or seeking favors, much like beggars. This perspective prompts a contemplation of the nature of power and justice, suggesting that even the most revered institutions are driven by self-interest and the pursuit of advantage.
Themes
CourtJusticePowerSelf-InterestBeggars
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a legal philosophy class to provoke discussion about the nature of justice.
More from Charles Maurice De Talleyrand
All quotes βIf we go on explaining we shall cease to understand one another.
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I am more afraid of an army of 100 sheep led by a lion than an army of 100 lions led by a sheep.
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What clever man has ever needed to commit a crime? Crime is the last resort of political half-wits.
Charles Maurice De TalleyrandRead
An important art of politicians is to find new names for institutions which under old names have become odious to the public.
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Love of glory can only create a great hero; contempt of glory creates a great man.
Charles Maurice De TalleyrandRead
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