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Greatness Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“A well-bred man is always sociable and complaisant.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“A well-bred man is always sociable and complaisant.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays, Book I, 1580

A cultivated person should be friendly and eager to please others, showing courtesy and openness.

In simple terms: Polite people are friendly and accommodating.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate sociability and graciousness.

Themes

courtesy social grace humility

Mood

warm considerate

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • networking events
  • dinner parties
  • team meetings
  • customer service

Key Concepts

humanism Renaissance thought

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you balance politeness with honesty?
  • When does accommodation become self‑sacrifice?
A Different Perspective

Being overly complaisant can lead to loss of authenticity or being taken advantage of.

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