O, let not virtue seek Remuneration for the thing it was…
““O, let not virtue seek Remuneration for the thing it was; For beauty, wit, High birth, vigour of bone, desert in service, Love, friendship, charity, are subjects all To envious and calumniating time.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Virtue should not seek reward; beauty, wit, and other gifts are subject to envy and criticism.
In simple terms: Virtue isn’t for profit; gifts attract envy.
Value intrinsic worth over external praise.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal development
- art criticism
- social media
- leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you stay true to your values?
- What role does envy play in society?
Not all virtues are recognized equally.