Tell troth and shame the devil.
Ben JonsonRead
Of all wild beasts preserve me from a tyrant; and of all tame a flatterer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Beware of those who seek power through manipulation, whether they are fierce or friendly.
This quote highlights the dangers posed by both tyrants, who wield power through fear and oppression, and flatterers, who may appear harmless yet manipulate others for personal gain. Jonson warns us to be cautious of both types of individuals, suggesting that true wisdom lies in recognizing and avoiding such characters in our lives.
Themes
TyrantFlattererWisdomManipulationCaution
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership workshop discussing ethical leadership.
More from Ben Jonson
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Queen and huntress, chaste and fair Now the sun is laid to sleep, Seated in thy silver chair, State in wonted manner keep: Hesperus entreats thy light Goddess, excellently bright.
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I know no disease of the soul but ignorance, a pernicious evil, the darkener of man's life, the disturber of his reason, and common confounder of truth.
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You are not now to think what's best to do, _x000D_ As in beginnings, but what must be done, _x000D_ Being thus enter'd; and slip no advantage _x000D_ That may secure you. Let them call it mischief; _x000D_ When it is past, and prosper'd , 'twill be virtue.
Ben JonsonRead
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