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He who is greedy of credit and reputation after his death…

“He who is greedy of credit and reputation after his death, doth not consider, that they themselves by whom he is remembered, shall soon after every one of them be dead; and they likewise that succeed those; until at last all memory, which hitherto by the succession of men admiring and soon after…” quote by Marcus Aurelius
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““He who is greedy of credit and reputation after his death, doth not consider, that they themselves by whom he is remembered, shall soon after every one of them be dead; and they likewise that succeed those; until at last all memory, which hitherto by the succession of men admiring and soon after dying hath had its course, be quite extinct.””

Marcus Aurelius

About This Quote

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

Pursuing fame and credit after death ignores mortality; all memories fade, making such pursuits futile.

In simple terms: Fame is fleeting; focus on virtue.

Key Takeaway

Live virtuously, not for legacy.

Themes

philosophy mortality legacy humility ego

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

ethical existential

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision‑making
  • legacy planning

Key Concepts

impermanence self‑knowledge historical perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • What lasting impact matters beyond fame?
  • How can one find meaning without seeking reputation?
A Different Perspective

Even lasting deeds eventually fade.

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