We amuse ourselves painting our prison-walls with bright figures and brilliant landscapes.

How can one learn to know oneself? Never by introspection, rather by action.

We must not take the faults of our youth with us into old age, for age brings along its own defects.

All that is noble is in itself of a quiet nature, and appears to sleep until it is aroused and summoned forth by contrast.

When I make a mistake everyone can see it, but not when I lie.

Ye great teachers: listen to what you say!

The child, offered the mother's breast, Will not in the beginning grab it; But soon it clings to it with zest. And thus at wisdom's copious breasts You'll drink each day with greater zest.