History is a myth that men agree to believe.
Interpretation
History is shaped by collective beliefs rather than objective truths.
This quote by Napoleon Bonaparte suggests that what we understand as history is often just a shared narrative agreed upon by people, rather than an absolute truth. It implies that the interpretation of historical events is influenced by perception, consensus, and bias, highlighting the subjective nature of historical narratives and the power of societal beliefs in shaping our understanding of the past.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of understanding historical narratives, one might say, 'As Napoleon Bonaparte said, history is a myth that men agree to believe.'
One must indeed be ignorant of the methods of genius to suppose that it allows itself to be cramped by forms. Forms are for mediocrity, and it is fortunate that mediocrity can act only according to routine. Ability takes its flight unhindered.
One can lead a nation only by helping it see a bright outlook. A leader is a dealer in hope.
We must laugh at man to avoid crying for him.
Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.
It is my wish that my ashes may repose on the banks of the Seine, in the midst of the French people, whom I have loved so well.
When small men attempt great enterprises, they always end by reducing them to the level of their mediocrity.
We're born naked, and the rest is drag.
In a democracy only will the freeman of nature design to dwell.
The afflicted are not listened to. They are like someone whose tongue has been cut out and who occasionally forgets the fact. When they move their lips no ear perceives any sound. And they themselves soon sink into impotence in the use of language, because of the certainty of not being heard.
We hear much of Bolshevism, much of labor unrest; at times, we hear the word 'revolution.' But these are but contagious diseases in the body of civilization, and I believe that the antitoxins of good cheer, mutual confidence, fairness and justice will ultimately cure these ills and make the world healthy and strong again.
One of the great benefits of organised religion is that you can be forgiven your sins, which must be a wonderful thing. I mean, I carry my sins around with me, there's nobody there to forgive them.
If you carry someone else's fears and live by someone else's values, you may find that you have lived their lives.
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