Duty Quote by Robert E Lee
“Duty is the most sublime word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more. You should never wish to do less.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Farewell Address, Robert E. Lee, 1865
Duty is presented as the highest moral principle, urging full commitment without seeking excess or deficiency.
In simple terms: Duty is supreme; do it fully.
Commit completely to your responsibilities.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military service
- public office
- personal relationships
- volunteer work
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance duty with self‑care?
- When is it right to say no?
Idealizing duty may ignore personal limits and lead to burnout.