The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
The desire of glory is the last infirmity cast off even by the wise.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quest for honor and recognition persists even among the wisest individuals.
This quote by Tacitus suggests that the pursuit of glory and recognition is an inherent human trait that even the most knowledgeable cannot shake off completely. It reflects the idea that despite wisdom and understanding, the desire for glory can still influence our actions and decisions, highlighting a fundamental aspect of human nature that transcends intellect and reason.
Themes
GloryWisdomDesireHuman NatureRecognition
In practice
Example use cases
You can use this quote in a motivational speech about the nature of ambition in people.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
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Selection is the very keel on which our mental ship is built. And in this case of memory its utility is obvious. If we remembered everything, we should on most occasions be as ill off as if we remembered nothing.
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