Accounts Quote by Jean de la Bruyere
“A simple garb is the proper costume of the vulgar; it is cut for them, and exactly suits their measure, but it is an ornament for those who have filled up their lives with great deeds. I liken them to beauty in dishabille, but more bewitching on that account.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Les Caractères, 1688
People are best suited to modest attire that matches their ordinary status, while the truly great appear striking even in simple dress because of their deeds.
In simple terms: Simple clothing fits ordinary people; greatness shines even in plain dress.
Key Takeaway
Value deeds over appearance.
Themes
humility
appearance
greatness
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- daily life
- public speaking
- leadership
- celebrations
Key Concepts
social status
personal virtue
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you judge others by their appearance?
- How can modesty enhance one's reputation?
A Different Perspective
Great deeds may be overlooked if not recognized.
![“[Eva Braun] lived life with [Adolf] Hitler, when he was away, she just filled up her time without Hitler. That was the sum total of it, really.” quote by Gretl Braun](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/54b/gretl-braun-9500_filled_eva-braun-lived-life-with-adolf-hitler-w_1047123.jpg)
![“The court is like a palace built of marble; I mean that it is made up of very hard but very polished people. [Fr., La cour est comme un edifice bati de marbre; je veux dire qu'elle est composee d'hommes fort durs mais fort polis.]” quote by Jean de la Bruyere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fcf/jean-de-la-bruyere-575_built_the-court-is-like-a-palace-built-of-marb_77288.jpg)
