Skip to content

Children Quote by Plutarch

“Lysander, when Dionysius sent him two gowns, and bade him choose which he would carry to his daughter, said, "She can choose best," and so took both away with him.” quote by Plutarch
Download Open image
“Lysander, when Dionysius sent him two gowns, and bade him choose which he would carry to his daughter, said, "She can choose best," and so took both away with him.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

Source Book: Parallel Lives, Plutarch, 1st century AD

Lysander shows that offering a choice can be a tactic to gain advantage, then taking everything anyway.

In simple terms: Choosing can be a trap; he took both.

Key Takeaway

Beware hidden motives in offers.

Themes

politics strategy manipulation

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business deals
  • diplomatic talks
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

power dynamics psychology negotiation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How often do you give choices to conceal true intent?
  • What are the ethical limits of strategic deception?
A Different Perspective

It may backfire if the other party feels betrayed.

3.0 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Plutarch

Explore all 451 Plutarch quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,417 Children quotes