I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
There is something noble in hearing myself ill spoken of, when I am doing well.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the idea that one can rise above criticism when they know they are acting morally and rightly.
Alexander the Great's quote suggests that there is a certain dignity or nobility in maintaining one's integrity and self-worth in the face of negative comments or misinterpretations by others. It conveys the idea that external judgment does not diminish one's value or the goodness of their actions, especially when they are aligned with their principles and purpose. In essence, it speaks to the strength of character required to endure criticism while remaining steadfast in one's commitment to doing what is right.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership seminar, one might cite this quote to inspire resilience in facing detractors.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes βAre you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
Now you fear punishment and beg for your lives, so I will let you free, if not for any other reason so that you can see the difference between a Greek king and a barbarian tyrant, so do not expect to suffer any harm from me. A king does not kill messengers.
In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
Similar quotes
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We so often tend to think our democracies are ruled by procedures and laws, but they are also governed by implicit rules and assumptions and one of them is the ability to feel shame - that you can be shamed.
The pornographers are not a deviation from the norm. Their presence in the mainstream shouldn't be surprising, because they represent mainstream values: The logic of domination and subordination that is central to patriarchy, hyper-patriotic nationalism, white supremacy, and a predatory corporate capitalism.
Before I die many will die with me and they'll deserve it. See you in Hell.
It is in the thick of calamity that one gets hardened to the truth - in other words, to silence.