Envy's Absence
Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Maxims

The author posits that the absence of envy is the most reliable indicator of a truly noble and superior character.

The most certain sign of being born with great qualities is to be born without envy.
6
Self-Love's Uncharted Depths
Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Maxims

A reflection on the vast and hidden depths of human egoism, suggesting that the complexities of self-love are far from being fully understood.

Whatever discoveries have been made in the region of self-love, there remain many unexplored territories there.
2
Vanity's Mutual Wound
Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Maxims

The author posits that our intolerance for the vanity of others stems from the fact that it competes with and offends our own self-importance.

What makes the vanity of others unsupportable is that it wounds our own.
6
Heart's Foolish Master
Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Maxims

This vision posits that human intellect is frequently misled and manipulated by the irrational impulses and desires of the emotions.

The head is ever the dupe of the heart.
2
Courage's Many Shades
Francois de La Rochefoucauld
Maxims

The author examines the spectrum of bravery, concluding that most courage is conditional and that the fear of death subtly influences even the most valiant actions.

Perfect bravery and sheer cowardice are two extremes rarely found. The space between them is vast, and embraces all other sorts of courage. The difference between them is not less than between faces and tempers. Men will freely expose themselves at the beginning of an action, and relax and be easily discouraged if it should last. Some are content to satisfy worldly honour, and beyond that will do little else. Some are not always equally masters of their timidity. Others allow themselves to be overcome by panic; others charge because they dare not remain at their posts. Some may be found whose courage is strengthened by small perils, which…
Continue reading →
6