No man is nobler born than another, unless he is born with better abilities and a more amiable disposition. They who make such a parade with their family pictures and pedigrees, are, properly speaking, rather to be called noted or notorious than noble persons. I thought it right to say this much, in order to repel the insolence of men who depend entirely upon chance and accidental circumstances for distinction, and not at all on public services and personal merit.
Seneca the YoungerChoose as a guide one whom you will admire more when you see him act than when you hear him speak.
Seneca the YoungerThe most imperious masters over their own servants are at the same time the most abject slaves to the servants of others.
Seneca the Younger