I do not admire the excess of a virtue as of valour…
““I do not admire the excess of a virtue as of valour, except I see at the same time the excess of the opposite virtue, as in Epaminondas, who had the greatest valour and the greatest kindness. For otherwise it is not to rise, it is to fall. We do not display greatness by going to one extreme, but in touching both at once, and filling all the intervening space.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True greatness lies in balancing opposing virtues rather than extreme in one; it requires integrating both courage and compassion.
In simple terms: Balance opposing virtues for true greatness.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate both courage and compassion.
Themes
balance
virtue
moderation
greatness
philosophy
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- personal development
- team management
Key Concepts
Stoicism
ethical duality
human flourishing
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice both courage and kindness daily?
- What risks arise from overemphasizing a single virtue?
A Different Perspective
Extreme focus on one virtue can neglect essential qualities.