“A noble man compares and estimates himself by an idea which is higher than himself; and a mean man, by one lower than himself. The one produces aspiration; the other ambition, which is the way in which a vulgar man aspires.”

— Marcus Aurelius , book Meditations

Source: Meditations

Last update June 3, 2021. History

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Marcus Aurelius 400

Emperor of Ancient Rome 121–180

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“A noble man compares and estimates himself by an idea which is higher than himself; and a mean man, by one lower than himself. The one produces aspiration; the other ambition, which is the way in which a vulgar man aspires.”

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Marcus Aurelius 400

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