Accounts Quote by Jean de la Bruyere
“That man is good who does good to others; if he suffers on account of the good he does, he is very good; if he suffers at the hands of those to whom he has done good, then his goodness is so great that it could be enhanced only by greater sufferings; and if he should die at their hands, his virtue can go no further: it is heroic, it is perfect.”
About This Quote
A person's moral worth is measured not only by benevolent actions but also by the suffering they endure because of those actions; ultimate sacrifice elevates virtue to heroism.
In simple terms: Good deeds, especially when costly, reveal true character.
Key Takeaway
Suffering for good amplifies moral greatness.
Themes
ethics
virtue
sacrifice
heroism
Mood
solemn
inspirational
Type
philosophical
moral maxim
When to use this quote
- whistleblowers facing retaliation
- humanitarian workers in conflict zones
- activists confronting oppressive regimes
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
Stoic endurance
Practical Applications
- Encourage support systems for those who bear the cost of moral action.
Questions to Reflect On
- When does personal sacrifice become counterproductive?
- How can societies recognize and protect those who suffer for the common good?
A Different Perspective
Excessive suffering may lead to burnout, diminishing the capacity to continue doing good.
![“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)
