Contempt Quote by Plutarch
“Prosperity has this property, it puffs up narrow Souls, makes them imagine themselves high and mighty, and look down upon the World with Contempt; but a truly noble and resolved Spirit appears greatest in Distress, and then becomes more bright and conspicuous.”
About This Quote
Source Writing: Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans, c. 110 AD
Wealth can inflate ego and contempt, while true character shines brightest in hardship.
In simple terms: Riches breed pride; hardship reveals virtue.
Stay humble and test character in adversity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- financial success
- personal crises
- leadership challenges
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you stay grounded when successful?
- What virtues emerge in tough times?
Wealth alone doesn’t guarantee virtue.