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Age Quote by Friedrich Schiller

“The Greeks put us to shame not only by their simplicity, which is foreign to our age; they are at the same time our rivals, nay, frequently our models, in those very points of superiority from which we seek comfort when regretting the unnatural character of our manners. We see that remarkable…” quote by Friedrich Schiller
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“The Greeks put us to shame not only by their simplicity, which is foreign to our age; they are at the same time our rivals, nay, frequently our models, in those very points of superiority from which we seek comfort when regretting the unnatural character of our manners. We see that remarkable people uniting at once fullness of form and fullness of substance, both philosophising and creating, both tender and energetic, uniting a youthful fancy to the virility of reason in a glorious humanity.”

Friedrich Schiller

About This Quote

Source Essay: "On the Greeks" (c. 1795)

The Greeks embody a blend of simplicity and superiority, serving as both rivals and models for modern humanity’s quest for balanced reason and passion.

In simple terms: Greeks combine simple elegance with powerful intellect.

Key Takeaway

Learn from their balanced approach.

Themes

philosophy culture balance

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic lecture
  • artistic inspiration
  • personal development

Key Concepts

classical studies humanism creative inspiration

Questions to Reflect On

  • What aspects of Greek thought can we apply today?
  • How do we balance reason with youthful energy?
A Different Perspective

Modern complexity may obscure simple wisdom.

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