Ambition Quote by Raymond Williams
“On the country has gathered the idea of a natural way of life: of peace, innocence, and simple virtue. On the city has gathered the idea of an achieved centre of learning, communication, light. Powerful hostile associations have also developed: on the city as a place of noise, worldliness and ambition; on the country as a place of backwardness, ignorance, limitation. A contrast between country and city, as fundamental ways of life, reaches back into classical times.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Culture and Society, 1958
The countryside embodies natural simplicity and peace, while the city represents learning, communication, and ambition, yet both hold stereotypes of virtue and vice.
In simple terms: Country = peace and virtue; city = learning and ambition.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the value in both rural and urban ways.
Themes
ruralism
urbanism
stereotypes
culture
history
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
observational
critical
comparative
When to use this quote
- rural living
- urban development
- education policy
- social integration
Key Concepts
Sociology
civilization
identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern media reinforce these stereotypes?
- Can we blend rural virtues with urban progress?
A Different Perspective
Both settings can be idealized or denigrated, oversimplifying complex realities.
