We do not imitate, but are a model to others.

I am of opinion that national greatness is more for the advantage of private citizens, than any individual well-being coupled with public humiliation. A man may be personally ever so well off, and yet if his country be ruined he must be ruined with it; whereas a flourishing commonwealth always affords chances of salvation to unfortunate individuals.

She is best who is least spoken of among men, whether for good or evil.

Future ages will wonder at us, as the present age wonders at us now.

Our love of what is beautiful does not lead to extravagance; our love of the things of the mind does not make us soft.

We do not need the praises of a Homer, or of anyone else whose words may delight us for the moment, but the estimation of facts will fall short of what is really true.

Better die standing than live kneeling.