Calling Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“An orator of past times declared that his calling was to make small things appear to be grand.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays by Michel de Montaigne, 1580
Orators may exaggerate modest matters to appear grand, highlighting the art of persuasion.
In simple terms: Small things can be made to seem important.
Recognize and question inflated rhetoric.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- advertising
- media analysis
- personal interactions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you noticed exaggeration?
- How do you discern substance from style?
Not all grand statements are false.