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Oh, be humble, my brother, in your prosperity! Whose…

“Oh, be humble, my brother, in your prosperity! Whose virtue is a deficiency of temptation, whose success may be a chance, whose rank may be an ancestor's accident, whose prosperity is very likely a satire.” quote by William Makepeace Thackeray
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““Oh, be humble, my brother, in your prosperity! Whose virtue is a deficiency of temptation, whose success may be a chance, whose rank may be an ancestor's accident, whose prosperity is very likely a satire.””

William Makepeace Thackeray

About This Quote

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

The quote satirically warns that prosperity can breed humility, suggesting that success may stem from chance, inheritance, or societal satire rather than personal virtue.

In simple terms: Prosperity may be accidental, not solely virtue‑driven.

Key Takeaway

Recognize humility in success.

Themes

humility prosperity satire

Mood

wry critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • wealth acquisition
  • career advancement
  • social status
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

social critique human nature fortune

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does luck play in your achievements?
  • How can humility be maintained amid success?
A Different Perspective

Success can be misattributed, leading to arrogance.

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