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Character Quote by Tacitus

“Even honor and virtue make enemies, condemning, as they do, their opposites by too close a contrast.” quote by Tacitus
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“Even honor and virtue make enemies, condemning, as they do, their opposites by too close a contrast.”

Tacitus

About This Quote

Source Book: Annals by Tacitus, c. 110 AD

Honor and virtue can create adversaries because they highlight opposing traits too starkly.

In simple terms: Virtue can provoke opposition.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that excellence may attract rivalry.

Themes

honor virtue conflict perception contrast

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • political rivalry
  • personal relationships
  • leadership challenges
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

Stoicism social dynamics identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance excellence with humility?
  • When does virtue become a source of conflict?
A Different Perspective

Even noble qualities can alienate those who feel threatened.

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