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CHORUS: You that live in my ancestral Thebes, behold this…

“CHORUS: You that live in my ancestral Thebes, behold this Oedipus,- him who knew the famous riddles and was a man most masterful; not a citizen who did not look with envy on his lot- see him now and see the breakers of misfortune swallow him! Look upon that last day always. Count no mortal happy…” quote by Sophocles
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““CHORUS: You that live in my ancestral Thebes, behold this Oedipus,- him who knew the famous riddles and was a man most masterful; not a citizen who did not look with envy on his lot- see him now and see the breakers of misfortune swallow him! Look upon that last day always. Count no mortal happy till he has passed the final limit of his life secure from pain.””

Sophocles

About This Quote

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

Life’s fortunes are fleeting; even the wise cannot escape fate, so cherish each day.

In simple terms: Fate is inevitable; live fully now.

Key Takeaway

Accept mortality, value each moment.

Themes

mortality fate humility

Mood

somber reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal health
  • career planning
  • relationships
  • stress management

Key Concepts

tragic heroism Greek tragedy philosophical reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What daily practices honor life’s brevity?
  • How do you balance acceptance of fate with personal agency?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on mortality can cause anxiety.

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