He that is ambitious for his son, should give him untried…
“He that is ambitious for his son, should give him untried names, For those have serv'd other men, haply may injure by their evils; Or otherwise may hinder by their glories; therefore set him by himself, To win for his individual name some clear praise.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Ambition for a child should focus on personal merit rather than borrowed prestige, encouraging unique achievement.
In simple terms: Raise children to earn their own reputation.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate individual excellence.
Themes
parenting
ambition
identity
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- career planning
- family expectations
- personal branding
Key Concepts
self‑actualization
reputation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we teach children to value their own achievements?
- What risks arise from emphasizing legacy over effort?
A Different Perspective
Relying on inherited names can limit true personal growth.