Annoyance Quote by Plutarch
““Demaratus, being asked in a troublesome manner by an importunate fellow, Who was the best man in Lacedaemon? answered at last, 'He, Sir, that is the least like you'.””
About This Quote
Source Historical text: Parallel Lives, 1st century AD
Plutarch uses irony to suggest that the most unassuming person may be the most unlike the asker, highlighting humility and self‑awareness.
In simple terms: The humble are often unlike the boastful.
Key Takeaway
Value humility over self‑importance.
Themes
humility
wisdom
self‑awareness
irony
Mood
thoughtful
instructive
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political counsel
- personal advice
- historical anecdote
- teaching moments
Key Concepts
philosophy
classical literature
leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- What does humility look like today?
- How can we avoid arrogance?
A Different Perspective
May not apply to modern meritocratic contexts.
![“It was natural for [Spartan women] to think and speak as Gorgo, the wife of Leonidas, is said to have done, when some foreign lady, as it would seem, told her that the women of Lacedaemon were the only women of the world who could rule men; 'With good reason,' she said, 'for we are the only women…” quote by Plutarch](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1c6/plutarch-597_marriage_it-was-natural-for-spartan-women-to-thin_3148533.jpg)
![“Their [Lacadaemonian] women, it is said, were bold and masculine, overbearing to their husbands in the first place, absolute mistresses in their houses, giving their opinions about public matters freely, and speaking openly even on the most important subjects.” quote by Plutarch](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/473/plutarch-597_ancient-greece_their-lacadaemonian-women-it-is-said-wer_3025911.jpg)
