Courts Courtiers Quote by Thomas Paine
““He writes neither in the character of a Frenchman nor an Englishman, but in the fawning character of that creature known in all countries, and a friend to none - a courtier. Whether it be the Court of Versailles, or the Court of St. James, or Carlton-House, or the Court in expectation, signifies not; for the caterpillar principle of all Courts and Courtiers are alike. They form a common policy throughout Europe, detached and separate from the interest of Nations: and while they appear to quarrel, they agree to plunder. Nothing can be more terrible to a Court or Cartier than the Revolution of France. That which is a blessing to Nations is bitterness to them: and as their existence depends on the duplicity of a country, they tremble at the approach of principles, and dread the precedent that threatens their overthrow.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Common Sense, 1776
Critiques the self‑serving, duplicitous nature of European courts that prioritize their own power over national interests, fearing revolutionary change.
In simple terms: Courtiers betray nations for personal gain and fear reform.
Key Takeaway
Beware self‑interest in politics.
Themes
politics
power
corruption
revolution
history
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
historical
political
When to use this quote
- diplomacy
- policy making
- historical analysis
- reform movements
Key Concepts
courtly intrigue
self‑preservation
national interest
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern institutions echo courtly duplicity?
- What safeguards can limit self‑serving politics?
A Different Perspective
Courtly self‑interest can undermine genuine progress.
![“Human rights did not begin with the French Revolution...[they] really stem from a mixture of Judaism and Christianity...[we English] had 1688, our quiet revolution, where Parliament exerted its will over the King...it was not the sort of Revolution that France's was...'Liberty, equality…” quote by Margaret Thatcher](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/662/margaret-thatcher-463_christianity_human-rights-did-not-begin-with-the-fren_1272124.jpg)
