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Ashamed Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“I had rather complain of ill-fortune than be ashamed of victory.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“I had rather complain of ill-fortune than be ashamed of victory.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: Of the Art of Being Alone, Michel de Montaigne, 1580

Montaigne prefers acknowledging misfortune over feeling shame from success, valuing honesty over pride.

In simple terms: Own your hardships rather than hide behind pride.

Key Takeaway

Choose humility over conceit.

Themes

humility pride honesty

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical essay

When to use this quote

  • personal setbacks
  • public achievements
  • self‑assessment

Key Concepts

self‑reflection moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does humility reveal about personal growth?
  • Is it easier to admit loss than to hide victory?
A Different Perspective

Pride can mask true feelings of failure.

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