Some [jests] are becoming to a gentleman, others are not…
““Some [jests] are becoming to a gentleman, others are not; see that you choose such as become you . Irony better befits a gentleman than buffoonery; the ironical man jokes to amuse himself, the buffoon to amuse other people.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Choosing humor appropriate to one's character reflects wisdom; irony shows intellect, buffoonery shows folly.
In simple terms: Pick jokes that suit you, not others.
Align humor with virtue.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- leadership
- personal branding
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do your jokes reflect your values?
- When does irony become sarcasm?
Humor that is too self‑indulgent can alienate.