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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.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“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.”

Thomas Jefferson

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.

Key Takeaway

Balance learning from past and present.

Themes

history interest temporal focus

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal reading
  • curriculum design
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

philosophy education historical perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we gravitate to distant past?
  • How can past lessons inform today?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting present issues can limit relevance.

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