Affection Quote by Héloïse
![“[I]t is not by being richer or more powerful that a man becomes better; one is a matter of fortune, the other of virtue. Nor should she deem herself other than venal who weds a rich man rather than a poor, and desires more things in her husband than himself. Assuredly, whomsoever this…” quote by Héloïse](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/43c/heloise-27050_affection_i-t-is-not-by-being-richer-or-more-power_726871.jpg)
““[I]t is not by being richer or more powerful that a man becomes better; one is a matter of fortune, the other of virtue. Nor should she deem herself other than venal who weds a rich man rather than a poor, and desires more things in her husband than himself. Assuredly, whomsoever this concupiscence leads into marriage deserves payment rather than affection.””
About This Quote
Source Letter: The Letters of Héloïse and Abelard, 12th century
Wealth and power do not determine moral worth; virtue is independent of fortune, and marriage should be based on love, not material gain.
In simple terms: Riches don’t make you good; virtue does.
Key Takeaway
Seek virtue over wealth.
Themes
morality
love
marriage
virtue
wealth
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- marriage decisions
- ethical dilemmas
- social expectations
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What values guide your relationships?
- How do you balance material security with moral integrity?
A Different Perspective
Love alone cannot guarantee moral superiority; personal character matters more.
![“[I]f the name of wife appears more sacred and more valid, sweeter to me is ever the word friend, or, if thou be not ashamed, concubine ... And thou thyself wert not wholly unmindful of that ... [as in the narrative of thy misfortunes ] thou hast not disdained to set forth sundry reasons by which I…” quote by Héloïse](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/651/heloise-27050_bonds_i-f-the-name-of-wife-appears-more-sacred_2298825.jpg)
