Character Quote by Juvenal
“The thirst after fame is greater than that after virtue; for who embraces virtue if you take away its rewards?”
About This Quote
Source Satire: Satires by Juvenal, 1st–2nd century AD
People chase fame for its perks, but virtue offers no tangible rewards, making fame more alluring.
In simple terms: Fame seems more rewarding than virtue because virtue lacks material payoff.
Key Takeaway
Value intrinsic rewards over external applause.
Themes
fame
virtue
motivation
reward
societal values
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career ambition
- political campaigns
- social media influence
- personal ambition
- public recognition
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates you beyond fame?
- Can virtue be rewarding in non‑material ways?
A Different Perspective
Virtue can be fulfilling even without external rewards, offering inner peace.
![“The thirst for fame is much greater than that for virtue; for who would embrace virtue itself if you take away its rewards? [Lat., Tanto major famae sitis est quam Virtutis: quis enim virtutem amplectitur ipsam Praemia se tollas.]” quote by Juvenal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f32/juvenal-918_character_the-thirst-for-fame-is-much-greater-than_958442.jpg)
![“Indignation leads to the making of poetry. [Lat., Facit indignatio versum.]” quote by Juvenal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f61/juvenal-918_indignation_indignation-leads-to-the-making-of-poetr_43480.jpg)
