Skip to content

Ambition Quote by John Milton

“With diadem and sceptre high advanced, The lower still I fall; only supreme In misery; such joy ambition finds.” quote by John Milton
Download Open image
“With diadem and sceptre high advanced, The lower still I fall; only supreme In misery; such joy ambition finds.”

John Milton

About This Quote

Source Poem: Paradise Lost, Book I, 1667

Ambition can elevate but also lead to deep misery when it becomes the sole pursuit.

In simple terms: Ambition brings both power and sorrow.

Key Takeaway

Beware of letting ambition eclipse contentment.

Themes

ambition power misery contentment

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • political power
  • personal success
  • leadership

Key Concepts

hubris human nature tragic flaw

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your ambition?
  • How do you balance ambition with happiness?
A Different Perspective

Ambition without balance can cause downfall.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by John Milton

Explore all 966 John Milton quotes

More Ambition quotes

Browse all 4,603 Ambition quotes