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He that would have his virtue published, is not the…

“He that would have his virtue published, is not the servant of virtue, but glory.” quote by Ben Jonson
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“He that would have his virtue published, is not the servant of virtue, but glory.”

Ben Jonson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True virtue is not about public praise; it is driven by the desire for glory rather than genuine moral service.

In simple terms: Virtue seeks glory, not service.

Key Takeaway

Seek sincere purpose.

Themes

virtue glory motivation

Mood

philosophical critical

Type

literary ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • public service
  • personal development
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy human ambition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines true virtue?
  • How differentiate glory from service?
A Different Perspective

May justify selfishness.

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