I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
Alexander The GreatRead
But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects a preference for a philosophical life over one of power and conquest.
In this statement, Alexander the Great expresses admiration for Diogenes, the ancient Greek philosopher known for his ascetic lifestyle and disdain for material wealth and social status. By stating that if he were not a king, he would choose to be a philosopher like Diogenes, Alexander highlights the value he sees in wisdom and simplicity, contrasting it with his own life of power and ambition.
Themes
PhilosophyWisdomSimplicityPowerLife
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophy lecture on the values of simplicity in life.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes →Are you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
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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.
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In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
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A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
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I am dying with the help of too many physicians.
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