We Greeks are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness.
ThucydidesRead
The peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learned to cultivate the olive and the vine.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The advancement of society often comes through agriculture and the cultivation of essential resources.
In this quote, Thucydides emphasizes the importance of agricultural development in societal progress. By cultivating resources like the olive and the vine, the peoples of the Mediterranean transitioned from a primitive state to a more civilized and advanced society, highlighting how learning and development in essential activities can elevate the human condition.
Themes
MediterraneanAgricultureCivilizationOliveVineProgress
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire discussions about the importance of agriculture in education curricula.
More from Thucydides
All quotes βIf it had not been for the pernicious power of envy, men would not so have exalted vengeance above innocence and profit above justice... in these acts of revenge on others, men take it upon themselves to begin the process of repealing those general laws of humanity which are there to give a hope of salvation to all who are in distress.
ThucydidesRead
Thucydides, an Athenian, wrote the history of the war between the Peloponnesians and the Athenians, he began at the moment that it broke out, believing that it would be a great war, and more memorable than any that had preceded it.
ThucydidesRead
Some legislators only wish to vengeance against a particular enemy. Others only look out for themselves. They devote very little time on the consideration of any public issue. They think that no harm will come from their neglect. They act as if it is always the business of somebody else to look after this or that. When this selfish notion is entertained by all, the commonwealth slowly begins to decay.
ThucydidesRead
Remember that this greatness was won by men with courage, with knowledge of their duty, and with a sense of honor in action.
ThucydidesRead
It is a common mistake in going to war to begin at the wrong end, to act first, and wait for disasters to discuss the matter.
ThucydidesRead
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