Plato Quote by Michel de Montaigne
““Were our pupil's disposition so bizarre that he would rather hear a tall story than the account of a great voyage or a wise discussion; that at the sound of a drum calling the youthful ardour of his comrades to arms he would turn aside for the drum of a troop of jugglers; that he would actually find it no more delightful and pleasant to return victorious covered in the dust of battle than after winning a prize for tennis or dancing; then I know no remedy except that his tutor should quickly strangle him when nobody is looking or apprentice him to make fairy-cakes in some goodly town - even if he were the heir of a Duke - following Plato's precept that functions should be allocated not according to the endowments of men's fathers but the endowments of their souls.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Apology for Raymond Sebond” (or similar) by Michel de Montaigne, 1580
The passage satirizes a student who prefers frivolous entertainment over serious learning, suggesting that education should match a person’s innate talents rather than family status.
In simple terms: A student loves fun over learning; education should fit the soul, not birth.
Key Takeaway
Align teaching with true interests and abilities.
Themes
education
talent
social class
humor
Mood
wry
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
satirical
advisory
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- parental guidance
- career counseling
- talent development
Key Concepts
Plato’s meritocracy
satire
pedagogy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can educators discover a student’s true passions?
- What balance between fun and rigor is optimal?
A Different Perspective
Not all students thrive on traditional methods; some need alternative engagement.
