Contempt Quote by Plutarch
“Prosperity has this property; it puffs up narrow souls, makes them imagine themselves high and mighty, and leads them to look down upon the world with contempt; but a truly noble spirit appears greatest in distress;”
About This Quote
Source Historical Text: Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans, Plutarch, 1st century AD
Wealth can inflate ego and contempt, while true greatness reveals itself when one faces hardship.
In simple terms: Riches may corrupt; hardship shows character.
Cultivate humility and resilience.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- leadership
- personal growth
- crisis management
- public service
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true nobility look like in modern life?
- How does adversity test personal values?
Not all noble acts are visible in comfort; context matters.