Born Quote by Thomas Otway
“Ere man's corruptions made him wretched, he Was born most noble that was born most free; Each of himself was lord; and unconfin'd Obey'd the dictates of his godlike mind.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Fatal Marriage by Thomas Otway, 1694
A noble, free-born man becomes corrupted, yet retains personal sovereignty over his mind and actions
In simple terms: Even corrupted, one can retain inner freedom and self‑rule
Key Takeaway
Maintain personal integrity despite external corruption
Themes
corruption
freedom
nobility
Mood
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- personal relationships
- ethical dilemmas
- social upheaval
Key Concepts
philosophy
human nature
self‑governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you preserve inner freedom when surrounded by corruption?
- What responsibilities accompany noble birth?
A Different Perspective
Freedom may be limited by external forces and moral compromise
