Able Quote by Ben Jonson
“That praises are without reason lavished on the dead, and that the honours due only to are paid to antiquity, is a complaint likely to be always continued by those who, being able to add nothing to truth, hope for eminence from the heresies of paradox; or those who, being forced by disappointment upon consolatory expedients, are willing to hope from posterity what the present age refuses, and flatter themselves that the regard which is yet denied by envy will be at last bestowed by time.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Volpone, 1606
People often praise the dead and ancient traditions without reason, using them to mask their own lack of truth and seek fame through paradoxical heresies or false hopes for future recognition.
In simple terms: Empty praise hides lack of truth and seeks fame.
Key Takeaway
Critically examine the motives behind praise.
Themes
honor
tradition
truth
vanity
historical memory
Mood
reflective
skeptical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- political speeches
- memorial services
- family gatherings
- media commentary
Key Concepts
philosophy
social criticism
ego
reputation
legacy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we elevate the past?
- How can we balance respect with critical thinking?
A Different Perspective
Such praise may also stem from genuine reverence, not merely self‑interest.
