Ancient Greek Quotes5

It is more difficult to preserve than to acquire.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

It is crazy to want what is impossible. And impossible for the wicked not to do so.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations V, 17

Yet, for a man to get what he wants, he must go against his own nature and act like a slave.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Phoenissae

What we seek is attainable; what escapes us is what we don’t care about.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

You will never make the crab walk straight.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Peace

Don’t live as if destined to live a thousand years. The inevitable end hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations IV, 16

If you want to become good, first believe that you are bad.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

Dreams come from Zeus.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad I

When asked what is hope, he said “the dream of a waking man.”

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

To the awake, one and the same world is common, but to the sleeping, each turns away into his own world.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Not even the gods fight necessity.

—  Simonides of Ceos, 556-468 BC, Ancient poet & author of epigrams

Timidity is not good for a man in need.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey XVII

Necessity is a bad thing, but there is no necessity to live with necessity.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

It is necessary to sail, it is not necessary to live.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian ‐ Πομπήιος

(general Pompey to sailors who did not want to sail because of a storm)

All men need the gods.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey III

The power of necessity is irresistible.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

Strongest is Necessity because it governs all things.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Necessity makes everybody stronger.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Without the essentials, it is impossible to live and live well.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The “right” is nothing more than what benefits the powerful.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

What is not good for the swarm is not good for the bee.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VI, 54

One’s country is wherever one does well.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Plutus

It is better to think before doing something than to repent later.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

For every action consider what has led to it and what follows it and thus proceed.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

Focus on the essence of a thing, whether it be through actions or motives or appearances.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 22

((Hannibal Lecter paraphrased this…))

Do nothing only for money.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

All wars are made for the acquisition of assets.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

His resolve is not to seem, but to be, the best.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐  Seven against Thebes

And of the infinite worlds, I have conquered none.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

You need to have courage, because tomorrow will be better. While there's life there’s hope, and only the dead have none.

—  Theocritus, 3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

He who does not hope for the unexpected, will not find it.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

When asked what is hope, he said “the dream of a waking man.”

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

I hate long lasting hopes.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

The hopes of the wise are attainable, those of the stupid impossible.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

What is common to all men? Hope. Because those who have nothing else possess hope still.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

It’s hope that shepherds most people.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

Hope as a mortal, be frugal as an immortal.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

Many a hope hath made shipwreck, only one have I seen fulfilled.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

Do not try what is beyond your capability.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Even the sun will not overstep its bounds.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Excessive desires create excessive poverties.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Sorrow is not the result of poverty, but of desire.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

Women know nothing excpet from what they want.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

But Zeus does not bring to accomplishment all thoughts in men's minds.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet

We all want to get rich but we cannot.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Excessive desires are a characteristic of children, not men.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Fierce desire for one thing blinds the soul to other things.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

He who desires more loses what he has now.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

A dry soul, without desires, is the wisest and best.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Which of these options is without bad implications?

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

A ship should not ride on a single anchor, nor life on a single hope.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

Praise a small ship, but put your freight in a large one.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -643

It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Fragments

An oath taken during sex is not valid.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

I inscribe the vows of a woman on water.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Better to give a little than to promise a lot.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

I want to survey the air for you and parcel it into acres.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Birds

Many promise big things, while they cannot even do small things.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

The tongue swore but my mind was still unpledged.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Hippolytus

Do great things without promising great things.

—  Pythagoras, 580-490 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Nobody lives the life he chooses to live.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Better a bad life than a good death.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Iphigeneia at Aulis

Prefer loss to dishonest profit; the one will make you sad once, the other for ever.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

I would rather be eaten by a lion than by a fox.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

A plausible war is preferable to a dishonorable peace.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

With two not even Hercules [got involved].

—  Archilochus, 725-650 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

If you marry a beautiful woman you will share her, if you marry an ugly one you will be punished.

—  Antisthenes, 445-360 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

Moderation is best.

—  Cleobulus, 6th cent. BC, Ancient Greek Poet, one of the 7 sages

Nothing in excess.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

The middleness in everything is more safe.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Observe due measure, for right timing is in all things the most important factor.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -694

Glory and wealth without moderation are not secured.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Be moderate in prosperity, prudent in adversity.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

Be not unwilling in what you do, neither selfish nor unadvised nor obstinate; let not over-refinement deck out your thought; be not wordy nor a busybody.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations III, 5

Modesty is bad where impudence prevails.

—  Diphilos, 4th/3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek comedian

In everything, enough is good. Too much or too little do not seem so.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The best way to exit life is as from a symposium: neither thirsty nor drunk.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

O soul, do not seek an immortal life, but drain what is best from the life you have.

—  Pindar, 522-438 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

Nature does nothing without purpose or in vain.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

You may break your heart, but men will still go on as before.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VIII, 4

You cannot take from one who does not have.

—  Lucian, 120-180 AD, Ancient Syrian-Greek satirist

(response to Charos who asked for a fare for Acherusia to pass to the underworld)

Every man is worth just so much as the things are worth about which he busies himself.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 3

He who does not hope for the unexpected, will not find it.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

I am looking for a human.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

(walking around with a lamp in broad daylight)

The evil decision is most evil for him who takes it.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -266

Wisdom outweighs any wealth.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Antigone

Seconds thoughts are invariably wiser.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Hippolytus

In big projects it is difficult to please everyone.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

By deeds, not words.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

We can tell the worthy and the unworthy not only from what they are doing but also from what they are thinking.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Speech is the mirror of action.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

For every action consider what has led to it and what follows it and thus proceed.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

Act knowing.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Be slow in considering, but resolute in action.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Speaking is the shadow of action.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

If your actions have a just cause, you will have the gods as allies.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

The actions of the young and the decisions of the older worth more.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Melanippe

Be industrious in actions not only in words.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

For words never defeat action.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcmene

A rolling stone gathers no moss.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

As they say, it's better not to be busy doing too many things, if you want to be in good mood.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations IV, 24

To meddle in many things is not safe in life

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Hippolytus

Nobody knows what you think, but [everybody] sees what you do.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Each man delights in the work that suits him best.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey XIV

Think what you are doing.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

While you do what you have to do, don’t pay attention to what the others are doing.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

You don't have to talk about what you're doing beforehand. This will be seen anyway.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations XI, 15

Doing many things brings many regrets.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Do not say before hand what you are going to do; for if you fail, you will be laughed at.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Good things are difficult.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

The gods have placed sweat before value.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -289

Hard work is the father of good reputation.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

Good things are achieved through myriads efforts.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Archelaus

Little effort will not bring much glory.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Those who try a lot succeed a lot.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

Demosthenes when asked how he became successful in rhetoric, replied “By spending more on oil than on wine.”

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

No one who is slack gains a good reputation; it is hard work that leads to excellence.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Archelaos

Spending efforts for things you shouldn't, you will be inadequate for things you should.

—  Isocrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

Beautiful and great works are for those who toil and take risks.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

The gods sell us their goods for the price of hard work and pain.

—  Epicharmus of Kos, 530-440 BC, Ancient Greek poet

Learning by suffering.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

Time as he grows old teaches all things.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

The wise man understands the new things based on the old things.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Experience created the art but inexperience created the luck.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Experience defeats inexperience.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Peleus

Everything flows, nothing stands still.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The universe is change; our life is what our thoughts make it.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations IV, 3

No man can step twice into the same river.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

In all things, change is sweet.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Is somebody afraid of change? But what can take place without change?

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 18

All things are in the process of changing; and you yourself are in continuous mutation and in continuous wear and the whole universe too.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations IX, 19

Another life, another way of life.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

Usually, very difficult situations also bring about big changes.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

In all things change is sweet.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Orestes

Many changes happen and various fortunes overturn in life.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The art of life is more like the wrestler's art than the dancer's, in respect of this, that it should stand ready and firm to meet onsets which are sudden and unexpected.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 61

It will not always be summer, build barns.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -503

Look beneath the surface; let not the inherent quality of a thing nor its worth escape you.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VI, 3

Nothing depends on luck, but all on good judgment and diligence.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

We can get on top of everything by diligence.

—  Antiphanes, 405-335 BC, Ancient comic poet

Everything is achievable through diligence and effort.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Difficulties are overcome with diligence.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

If you should put even a little on a little, and should do this often, soon this too would become big.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -361

Know the right time.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Time is that wherein there is opportunity, and opportunity is that wherein there is no great time

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

There is no gate to wealth so secure that could not be opened by a lucky opportunity.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Fortune never helps the fainthearted.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Be not unwilling in what you do, neither selfish nor unadvised nor obstinate; let not over-refinement deck out your thought; be not wordy nor a busybody.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations III, 5

Each art must use its tools, each body its soul.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Give me a place to stand and I shall move the earth.

—  Archimedes, 287-212 BC, Ancient Greek mathematician & inventor

The hand is the instrument of instruments.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

If you do not hit the clay, you cannot make tile.

—  Archytas, 428-347 BC, Ancient philosopher & statesman

As the men’s nature differ, so do their ways.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Iphigeneia at Aulis

Those diseases which medicines do not cure, iron cures; those which iron cannot cure, fire cures; and those which fire cannot cure, are to be reckoned wholly incurable.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

(iron=knife, fire=searing iron)

Extreme remedies are the best for extreme diseases.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

People, to make a living, devise many and varied things.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

Courage makes misfortunes seem small.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

There is not a man alive who has wholly escaped misfortune.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Heracles

It is misfortune not to be able to bear misfortune.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Efforts performed willingly give patience to endure what happens unwillingly.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Be moderate in prosperity, prudent in adversity.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

Your country becomes great when in trouble.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ The Suppliants

Usually, very difficult situations also bring about big changes.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

With such adversity the glory of men grows.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

The gods sell us their goods for the price of hard work and pain.

—  Epicharmus of Kos, 530-440 BC, Ancient Greek poet

I only wish that wisdom were the kind of thing that flowed … from the vessel that was full to the one that was empty.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

He was easy here, will be easy there.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Frogs

(about the deceased Sophocles)

There is no royal road to geometry.

—  Eucliid, 4th-3rd cent. BC, Greek mathematician, the “father of geometry”

(his answer to the king of Egypt Ptolemy, who asked for a shorter way to learn Geometry)

When God helps you, he makes everything easy.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

What cannot be resolved, it is cut.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

(cutting the Gordian Knot)

There is always a way if one does not avoid hard work.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

Extreme remedies are the best for extreme diseases.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

Beautiful and great works are for those who toil and take risks.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

To dare the impossible is no mark of a wise man.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Helen

We must help the poor, not encourage idleness.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

The duties count in addition to relations.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

(for the things a philosopher should not neglect)

What is not good for the swarm is not good for the bee.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VI, 54

I did something for the society. Therefore I benefited myself.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐  Meditations XI,4

From concord come the great achievements.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Small among the small, I shall be great among the great.

—  Pindar, 522-438 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

One bee alone does not make honey.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

The strength lies in the union.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

We were born for mutual assistance, as the feet, the hands, the eyelids, as the rows of the upper and under teeth. So to fight each other is not natural.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations ΙΙ, 1

Even the animals desire to have companions.

—  Xenophon, 430-355 BC, Ancient Greek soldier & historian

A large fortune is accumulated by extremely hard work, but [thus] life becomes miserable.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Work is no disgrace: it is idleness which is a disgrace.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -311

Variety at work, makes the work sweet.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Misers have the fate of the bee working as if they are going to live for ever.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

God loves to assist the man who works hard.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

Oh handicraft that I hate so much!

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

Seek your fortunes by hard work.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

Work is good, but idleness is bad.

—  Xenophon, 430-355 BC, Ancient Greek soldier & historian

Life is short and Art long; the opportunity fleeting, experience deceitful, and judgment difficult.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

(the first phrase in the “Aphorisms”)

It is not possible to know medicine without knowing what a human is.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

As to diseases, make a habit of two things, to help, or at least, to do no harm.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

Those diseases which medicines do not cure, iron cures; those which iron cannot cure, fire cures; and those which fire cannot cure, are to be reckoned wholly incurable.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

(iron=knife, fire=searing iron)

A physician is worth more than several other men put together.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad XI

Extreme remedies are the best for extreme diseases.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

Being a doctors for the others, he is himself full of ulcers.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

The doctors like to overstate the bad things.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

If doctors did not exist, there would be none more stupid than teachers.

—  Athenaeus, 2nd-3rd cent. AD, Ancient Greek writer from Egypt

It is not possible to know medicine without knowing what a human is.

—  Hippocrates, 460-370 BC, Ancient Greek physician, the “Father of Medicine”

A snake will not become a dragon unless it eats a dragon.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

Risen to greatness from small and humble beginnings.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

(of Philip of Macedonia)

Let each man exercise the art he knows.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

The fox knows a lot and the hedgehog knows one good thing.

—  Archilochus, 725-650 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

Every ruler must remember three things. Firstly, that he rules men; secondly, that he rules according to law, and thirdly, that he does not rule for ever.

—  Agathon, 450-400 BC, Ancient Greek tragic poet

The night likes to cause pain to the wise ruler.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Libation bearers

He who has learned how to obey will know how to command.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

A king and a general has many cares.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Iphigeneia at Aulis

Many leaders is not a good thing. Let there be one ruler, one king.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad II

A ruler should consider nothing mortal, but everything immortal.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

You should have served as an oarsman before you try to take the helm.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Knights

The shepherd does not sleep.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

Often an entire city has suffered because of an evil man.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -240

The market is the place designated for cheating each other and taking advantage.

—  Anacharsis, 6th cent. BC, Scythian prince & philosopher

For wealth is useless to the dead.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Persians

A fair man never becomes rich.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

You cannot buy glory with money.

—  Isocrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

A man completely enslaved to money will never be just.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Do nothing only for money.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

War is a matter not so much of arms as of expenditure.

—  Thucydides, 460-394 BC, Ancient Greek historian

Gold is the nerves of the war.

—  Pindar, 522-438 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

If we have money, we shall have friends.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

It is not safe to handle neither a horse without bridle nor wealth without thinking.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

Tis money we need; for without money nothing can be done.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

Wealth, little man, is the god of the wise, the rest is show and fancy talk.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Cyclops

Fortune did not give money to the rich, but lent it.

—  Bion of Borysthenes, c. 325-255 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

Love of money is the mother of all bad.

—  Phocylides, c. 5th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

Weep, moneylenders, yourselves and your money and your interest’s interest.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Clouds

Speak not of wealth. I cannot admire a god whom even the wickedest man can get into a hold.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Aeolus

Wealth should not be seized; god-given wealth is much better.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -320

In all things there is saturation except wealth.

—  Theognis of Megara, 6th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

Wealth is a weak anchor.

—  Pythagoras, 580-490 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The very rich are not good.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

For often evil men are rich, and good men poor. But we will not exchange with them our virtue for their wealth.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

Satiety comes of riches and hubris comes of satiety.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

It’s terrible to become rich and to know nothing else.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

Riches derived from evil deeds make the disgrace more conspicuous.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

What is wealth? A treasury of evils, a supply of bad luck, a gift of wickedness.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Envy crawls towards the rich man.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Αίας

Long garments hinder the body; excessive wealth hinders the soul.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

A large fortune is accumulated by extremely hard work, but [thus] life becomes miserable.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Of all our possessions, wisdom alone is immortal.

—  Isocrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

The best possession of a man is a sympathetic woman.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Antigone

God hates violence and bids all men acquire their possessions without stealing.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Helen

One should not value living with many possessions, but living well.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Sailing to Corinth is not for everyone.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

The lack of money never caused prodigality.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

Small expenses make great fortunes disappear.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Fools yearn for what is gone and waste what they have.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Dishonest gain has short pleasures and long sorrows.

—  Diphilos, 4th/3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek comedian

Prefer loss to dishonest profit; the one will make you sad once, the other for ever.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Gain upon gain, and interest to boot!

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Seven against Thebes

Do not seek evil gains; evil gains are the equivalent of disaster.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -352

Profit by any means is greed.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

Evil gains bring loss of virtue.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Evil profits have short pleasures nut long sorrows.

—  Diphilos, 4th/3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek comedian

Man is the measure of all things.

—  Protagoras, 487-412 BC, Ancient Greek sophist

I want to survey the air for you and parcel it into acres.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Birds

Loans make slaves out of free men.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Bribe effectively.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

Others live to eat, myself I eat to live.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

Plants exist for the sake of animals and animals for the sake of men.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

If a rich man, when you will; if a poor man, when you can.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

(his idea for the proper time for lunch)

Pleasure, a most mighty lure to evil.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Pleasures are transient, honors are immortal.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

Untimely pleasures produce aversion.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

If a man insisted always on being serious, and never allowed himself a bit of fun and relaxation, he would go mad or become unstable without knowing it.

—  Herodotus, 480-420 BC, Ancient Greek historian, the “ father of History”

Pleasures are mortal while the virtues are immortal.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

It is harder to fight against pleasure than against anger.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The continent man is not he who avoids pleasure, but having tasted it, is not carried to excess.

—  Aristippus, 435-355 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Avoid a pleasure which brings sorrow.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

The enjoyment from a cheap pleasure is short.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Erechtheus

It is not possible to reach greatness by living a life of pleasure

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Archelaus

The root of misfortune is pleasure seeking.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

I'd rather be mad than seek pleasure.

—  Antisthenes, 445-360 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

Among the things that give pleasure, the rarest give the greatest joy when they happen.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

A weak man is caught by pleasures.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Do not seek every pleasure but choose the one which leads to something good.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

It is impossible to be free if you are enslaved and dominated by your passions.

—  Pythagoras, 580-490 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

A life without feasts is like a long road without taverns.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

No fool can be silent at a feast.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

For the lazy it is always the holidays.

—  Theocritus, 3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

Bronze is the mirror of the form; wine, of the heart.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

When a man is exhausted, wine will build his strength.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad VI

Being drunk is the same with being in love: it makes people warm and cheerful and loose.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

What is in the heart of the sober is in the mouth of the drunk.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

When men drink, they are rich, they are successful, they win, they are happy and they are helpful to their friends.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Knights

Demosthenes when asked how he became successful in rhetoric, replied “By spending more on oil than on wine.”

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

In wine, there is truth.

—  Alcaeus of Mytilene, 7th-6th cent. BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

Quickly, bring me a flagon of wine, to soak my brain and say something smart.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright

The vine bears three grapes: the first of pleasure, the second of intoxication, the third of disgust.

—  Anacharsis, 6th cent. BC, Scythian prince & philosopher

The world is a stage, life is a passage. You came, you saw, you departed.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Nothing is without a cause.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Nothing comes of nothing and nothing disintegrates into nothing.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Nothing without cause, nothing without effect.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

The responsibility lies with the one who chooses, the god is not the cause.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The holy is holy because it is loved by the gods, or it is loved by the gods because it is holy?

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The will of Zeus, the hand of Hephæstus.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

((for the torture of Prometheus))

A bad beginning makes a bad ending.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Aeolus

Boldness is the beginning of action. But fortune controls how it ends.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The mountain labors and gives birth to a mouse.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

Beautiful and great works are for those who toil and take risks.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

Analyze the unknown based on the known.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

Focus on the essence of a thing, whether it be through actions or motives or appearances.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 22

((Hannibal Lecter paraphrased this…))

The future is hidden from all men and great events hang on small chances.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

Everything in the past is judged by the outcome of the last event.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

Most of what will happen in the future is the same as what has happened in the past.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Those who succeed don’t know how to behave correctly.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ The Suppliants

Even a good captain could be shipwrecked. And a great man can fail.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

You will not be tolerated if you are successful.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

What is the most pleasant thing? To succeed.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

It is acceptable to fail, it is not acceptable to be negligent.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

The credit we get for wisdom is measured by our success.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Hippolytus

Zeus punishes those who are too uppity.

—  Ancient Greek proverb ‐ Children of Hercules

For great wrongdoing there are great punishments from the gods.

—  Herodotus, 480-420 BC, Ancient Greek historian, the “ father of History”

Don't punish anyone without investigating.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Cruel maybe your suffering, yet unholy were your deeds.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Electra

Count no man happy until the end is known.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

(to Croesus, king of Lydia)

Happiness comes from the soul, like unhappiness.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Knowing that human happiness never remains long in the same place.

—  Herodotus, 480-420 BC, Ancient Greek historian, the “ father of History”

Who is happy? This is a person, who has a healthy body, is dowered with peace of mind and cultivates his talents.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

So we must exercise ourselves in the things which bring happiness, since, if that be present, we have everything, and, if that be absent, all our actions are directed towards attaining it.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Happiness in life depends on very few things.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VII, 67

The great happiness is not lasting among mortals.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Orestes

Happy are those who have never experienced misfortune.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Αντιγόνη

Men do not get happy from bodies or from money, but by acting right and thinking wide.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The life of the happy is short, and long is the life of the unhappy.

—  Apollonius of Tyana, 1st cent. AD, Ancient Greek Neopythagorean philosopher

True happiness is found in freedom, and true freedom in bravery.

—  Thucydides, 460-394 BC, Ancient Greek historian

It is easy to find a friend in prosperity, but when you are unhappy nothing is harder.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Happiness does not dwell in herds nor in gold.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

To be happy is a god among men and more than a god.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Libation bearers

Everyone has within them the reserves of happiness and unhappiness.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

Three things support the perfection of a man: character, learning and practice.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The just man is most free from disturbance, while the unjust is full of the utmost disturbance.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

When the oak tree is down, all men take wood.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

[Zeus] is humbling the proud and exalting the humble.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

Time lifts and time lowers.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

Alas, how swiftly does the god change the fate of the fortunate.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

To many, having first granted fortune, the god uprooted it entirely.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

Many changes happen and various fortunes overturn in life.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

A well governed state is the best environment for growth.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

The first and greatest victory is to conquer yourself; to be conquered by yourself is of all things most shameful and vile.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Achieve your victories without blood.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

I do not steal victory.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

(reply to the suggestion by Parmenion, before the Battle of Gaugamela, that he attack the Persian camp during the night.)

If we defeat the Romans in one more battle, we are totally lost.

—  Pyrrhus, 312-272 BC, Ancient Greek king of Epirus

(after his “Pyrrhic” victories at Heraclea and Asculum in 279 BC)

Where there is competition, there is also victory.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Slaves and master could never be friends.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Those who cannot face danger like men become the slaves of any invader.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Loans make slaves out of free men.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Who dares not speak his free thoughts behaves like a slave.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Phoenician women

One who is a slave to others should not be vainglorious.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Antigone

It is not safe to handle neither a horse without bridle nor wealth without thinking.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

I know they use a short bridle for wild horses.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Antigone

Control your tongue, your stomach, your genitals.

—  Anacharsis, 6th cent. BC, Scythian prince & philosopher

Great men have the whole earth for their tomb.

—  Thucydides, 460-394 BC, Ancient Greek historian

(in Pericles' Funeral Oration)

My return home is lost, but my glory will never die.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad IX

You cannot buy glory with money.

—  Isocrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

Glory and wealth without moderation are not secured.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Little effort will not bring much glory.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Wealth is mortal, the glory immortal.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

Glory is nice but uncertain.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

O fame, fame, a myriad of men, who have done nothing in their lives, you have inflated into high renown!

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromache

With such adversity the glory of men grows.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

We tend to believe that the successful man knows everything well.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Heraclides

To make the same mistake twice is not not the act of a wise man.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

It’s a shame to stumble on the same rock twice.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

A slip of the tongue speaks the truth.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

The cause of error is ignorance of what is better.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

He who does much makes the most mistakes.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Oenomaus

A wrong word can turn your whole life upside down.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Only in death there is no remedy.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Act as if every action is the last action of your life.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations II, 5

The die is cast.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Let the die be cast.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

(similar to the phrase Alea iacta est by Julius Caesar according to Plutarch)

It is a much greater shame to lose something than to fail to get it.

—  Thucydides, 460-394 BC, Ancient Greek historian

He who desires more loses what he has now.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Other misfortunes are secondary for a woman, but if she loses her husband, she loses her life.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromache

Sometimes the day is a step mother, sometimes a mother.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -825

Glory is nice but uncertain.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

Nothing among mortals remains truly stable.

—  Simonides of Ceos, 556-468 BC, Ancient poet & author of epigrams

The electorate is the most unstable and unpredictable thing.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

All share the same sufferings; life is a wheel; fortune is unstable.

—  Phocylides, c. 5th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

Between the cup and the lip, many things can happen.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

Time is the healer of all inevitable ills.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

A long life creates myriads of troubles.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Oenomaus

Sing to me of the man, Muse, the man of twists and turns driven time and again off course, once he had plundered the hallowed heights of Troy.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey I

it is important to think clearly in times of trouble.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Running away comes with many hardships.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

Hide your misfortune.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

The root of misfortune is pleasure seeking.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Happy are those who have never experienced misfortune.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Αντιγόνη

Nothing bad can be lost easily.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

We sing while our houses are on fire!

—  Ancient Greek phrase

Other countless plagues, wander amongst men; for earth is full of evils and the sea is full.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -101

From one trouble, countless others follow.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

For in misery men grow old quickly.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -93

For marriage is the worst misfortune!

—  Antiphanes, 405-335 BC, Ancient comic poet

Of unbridled talk and lawless follies misfortune is the end.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Bacchae

My dear, learn from your misfortunes not to be too proud.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet

Better to die once and for all than to suffer pain for all my life.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

Nothing happens to anybody which he is not fitted by nature to bear.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations V, 18

It is easier to give advice to others who suffer than bear yourself.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcestis

Endure suffering. Because you were pleased when you made others suffering.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

All share the same sufferings; life is a wheel; fortune is unstable.

—  Phocylides, c. 5th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

He who is close to Zeus is close to thunder.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

Wrong timing is very dangerous.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

A friend knows his friend in danger.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

And you, old man, we are told you prospered once.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad XXIV

(Achilles to Priam)

All things are in the process of changing; and you yourself are in continuous mutation and in continuous wear and the whole universe too.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations IX, 19

And now I am the miserable sport of the wind!

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Prometheus Bound

It’s bad to be poor. My noble bloodline brought me no food.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Phoenician women

Old age and poverty, two wounds hard to heal.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

Poverty is a self-taught virtue.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

If a rich man, when you will; if a poor man, when you can.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

(his idea for the proper time for lunch)

Poverty awakens the arts.

—  Theocritus, 3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

I have nothing except the penis in my right hand.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Clouds

A poor man is abandoned by all his friends.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

Poverty had a lack of wisdom.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Polyidus

I think that people do not have wealth and poverty in their homes but in their souls.

—  Xenophon, 430-355 BC, Ancient Greek soldier & historian

Hunger or a shortage of money puts an end to love.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Sea, fire and, the third evil, woman.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

The state is destroyed by its great men.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

For trust and mistrust, alike ruin men.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -372

Helen? Ship destroyer, men destroyer, city destroyer.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

(a play on her name and έλω [=kill])

Hunger coexists with darkness.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

For the hungry everything is edible.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

You cannot say a word to contradict hunger.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Hunger or a shortage of money puts an end to love.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

Once a man be done with hunger, rich and poor are all as one.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Electra