When someone blamed Hecataeus the sophist because that…
““When someone blamed Hecataeus the sophist because that, being invited to the public table, he had not spoken one word all supper-time, Archidamidas answered in his vindication 'He who knows how to speak, knows also when'.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A rhetorical lesson that eloquence includes knowing when to remain silent, emphasizing restraint in speech.
In simple terms: Speak wisely, sometimes silence is best.
Practice measured speech.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates
- public speaking
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you stay silent?
- How does restraint affect persuasion?
Silence may be misinterpreted as weakness.