Athens Quote by Plutarch
“Anacharsis coming to Athens, knocked at Solon's door, and told him that he, being a stranger, was come to be his guest, and contract a friendship with him; and Solon replying, "It is better to make friends at home," Anacharsis replied, "Then you that are at home make friendship with me.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Parallel Lives, Anacharsis and Solon, c. 100 AD
A foreigner seeks friendship, but the host prefers local ties; the visitor turns the logic back, urging openness to outsiders.
In simple terms: A guest asks for friendship, the host says keep it local, the guest challenges that.
Key Takeaway
Embrace connections beyond familiar circles.
Themes
friendship
hospitality
culture
bias
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- travel
- business networking
- community building
- cultural exchange
Key Concepts
reciprocity
social norms
in-group/out-group dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when someone offers friendship across cultural lines?
- What barriers prevent you from forming new relationships?
A Different Perspective
Friendship can be limited by xenophobia or insularity.
