Death Quote by Plato
““I certainly have many enemies, and this is what will be my destruction if I am destroyed; of that I am certain; not Meletus, nor yet Anytus, but the envy and detraction of the world, which has been the death of many good men, and will probably be the death of many more; there is no danger of my being the last of them.””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Phaedo, Plato, c. 360 BC
Envy and public criticism can undermine even the strongest individuals, making societal judgment a potential threat to one’s legacy.
In simple terms: Public envy can destroy a person’s reputation and life.
Guard against letting others’ envy dictate your actions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- leadership
- political activism
- academic reputation
- social media presence
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of your work are truly yours?
- How can you remain resilient to envy?
Focusing solely on external judgment may cause unnecessary anxiety and self‑censorship.