The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
True bravery is shown by performing without witness what one might be capable of doing before all the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True courage is demonstrated through actions taken without seeking recognition or validation from others.
The quote emphasizes that genuine bravery lies not in seeking applause or acknowledgment for one's actions, but in the willingness to act morally and courageously, even when no one is watching. It suggests that a person's true character is revealed in their ability to do what is right quietly and independently, without the influence of external validation.
Themes
BraveryCourageActionIntegrityCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech at a community event, one could use this quote to inspire young leaders.
More from Francois De La Rochefoucauld
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Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
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Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
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