Becoming Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“It is easy to distinguish between the joking that reflects good breeding and that which is coarse-the one, if aired at an apposite moment of mental relaxation, is becoming in the most serious of men, whereas the other is unworthy of any free person, if the content is indecent or the expression obscene.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: On the Orator, Cicero, 55 BC
He contrasts refined humor, is, and crude or offensive jokes, noting the latter undermine dignity.
In simple terms: Good humor is refined; crude jokes degrade.
Key Takeaway
Prefer wit that respects audience dignity.
Themes
etiquette
communication
humor
social norms
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- social gatherings
- media commentary
- online forums
Key Concepts
rhetoric
morality
censorship
Questions to Reflect On
- When does humor cross the line?
- How does context change perception of jokes?
A Different Perspective
Cultural differences affect what is considered offensive.
![“Things sacred should not only be touched with the hands, but unviolated in thought. [Lat., Res sacros non modo manibus attingi, sed ne cogitatione quidem violari fas fuit.]” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/deb/marcus-tullius-cicero-157_hands_things-sacred-should-not-only-be-touched_11960.jpg)
