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Crime Quote by Ovid

“It is less to suffer punishment than to deserve it. [Lat., Estque pati poenas quam meruisse minus.]” quote by Ovid
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“It is less to suffer punishment than to deserve it. [Lat., Estque pati poenas quam meruisse minus.]”

Ovid

About This Quote

Source Poem: Metamorphoses, Book 5, 8 AD

It is preferable to endure punishment than to be worthy of it; suffering is better than earning it.

In simple terms: Endure punishment rather than deserve it.

Key Takeaway

Choose humility over entitlement.

Themes

humility justice ethics consequence

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical literary

When to use this quote

  • legal judgments
  • personal relationships
  • parenting
  • disciplinary actions

Key Concepts

classical literature morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is punishment justified?
  • Can suffering be a teacher?
A Different Perspective

Punishment may not always be just or effective.

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