Art Quote by Erasmus
““For what is more foolish than for a man to study nothing else than how to please himself? To make himself the object of his own admiration? And yet, what is there that is either delightful or taking, nay rather what not the contrary, that a man does against the hair? Take away this salt of life, and the orator may even sit still with his action, the musician with all his division will be able to please no man, the player be hissed off the stage, the poet and all his Muses ridiculous, the painter with his art contemptible, and the physician with all his slip-slops go a-begging. Lastly, you will be taken for an ugly fellow instead of youthful, and a beast instead of a wise man, a child instead of eloquent, and instead of a well-bred man, a clown. So necessary a thing it is that everyone flatter himself and commend himself to himself before he can be commended by others.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Praise of Folly, Erasmus, 1511
Self‑flattery blinds one to true virtue; genuine merit requires humility and external validation.
In simple terms: Pride blinds; humility reveals worth.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility before seeking praise.
Themes
pride
humility
self‑awareness
virtue
social perception
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership
- public speaking
Key Concepts
psychology of ego
ethical behavior
reputation management
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance self‑confidence with humility?
- What external feedback do you trust?
A Different Perspective
Hubris can damage relationships and reputation.
