Skip to content

The Great slight the men of wit, who have nothing but wit…

“The Great slight the men of wit, who have nothing but wit; the men of wit despise the Great, who have nothing but greatness; the good man pities them both, if with greatness or wit they have not virtue.” quote by Jean de la Bruyere
Download Open image
“The Great slight the men of wit, who have nothing but wit; the men of wit despise the Great, who have nothing but greatness; the good man pities them both, if with greatness or wit they have not virtue.”

Jean de la Bruyere

About This Quote

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

Wit and greatness are both hollow without virtue; true value lies in moral character.

In simple terms: Wit and greatness need virtue to matter.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate virtue over show.

Themes

virtue humility wisdom

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • social interactions
  • public speaking
  • creative work

Key Concepts

ethics classical literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What virtues guide your actions?
  • How can you use wit responsibly?
A Different Perspective

Wit can be useful without virtue; balance humor with integrity.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jean de la Bruyere

Explore all 464 Jean de la Bruyere quotes

More Despise quotes

Browse all 918 Despise quotes