Augustus Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“I feel a much greater interest in knowing what has passed two or three thousand years ago, than in what is now passing. I read nothing, therefore, but of the heroes of Troy, ... of Pompey and Caesar, and of Augustus too.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: 1795, correspondence with a friend about historical study
Interest in ancient history outweighs present events, leading to a focus on past heroes rather than current happenings.
In simple terms: He prefers studying ancient heroes over current events.
Balance learning from past and present.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- personal reading
- curriculum design
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we gravitate to distant past?
- How can past lessons inform today?
Neglecting present issues can limit relevance.