Athenians Quote by Matthew Arnold
“Eutrapelia . "A happy and gracious flexibility," Pericles calls this quality of the Athenians...lucidity of thought, clearness and propriety of language, freedom from prejudice and freedom from stiffness, openness of mind, amiability of manners.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Culture and Anarchy", 1869
Pericles praised a quality of flexible, clear, and unbiased thinking, encouraging open‑minded, amiable communication
In simple terms: Clear, unbiased, and flexible thinking leads to gracious interaction
Key Takeaway
Cultivate open‑mindedness and clear expression
Themes
culture
communication
philosophy
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- education
- debate
- conflict resolution
- media analysis
Key Concepts
critical thinking
rhetoric
civic virtue
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice mental flexibility in daily conversations?
- What habits reinforce clear and gracious language?
A Different Perspective
Flexibility can be hindered by entrenched biases
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