No one should approach the temple of science with the soul of a money changer.
Thomas BrowneRead
Man is a noble animal, splendid in ashes, and pompous in the grave.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans possess grandeur and dignity, even in death, reflecting on the nature of existence.
This quote by Thomas Browne suggests that the essence of humanity is inherently noble, regardless of the state of being—whether it be in life or death. It emphasizes the paradox of human existence, where one can find beauty and dignity in both the transient nature of life and the finality of death, pointing to a deeper reflection on the human condition and our legacies.
Themes
HumanityNobilityDeathLifeExistence
In practice
Example use cases
In a eulogy reflecting on a person's life achievements.
More from Thomas Browne
All quotes →Content may dwell in all stations. To be low but above contempt may be high enough to be happy.
Thomas BrowneRead
Thus there are two books from whence I collect my Divinity; besides that written one of God, another of his servant Nature, that universal and public Manuscript, that lies expans'd unto the eyes of all; those that never saw him in the one, have discovered him in the other.
Thomas BrowneRead
To be content with death may be better than to desire it.
Thomas BrowneRead
Life itself is but the shadow of death, and souls departed but the shadows of the living.
Thomas BrowneRead
The long habit of living indisposeth us for dying.
Thomas BrowneRead
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