A simple maiden in her flower Is worth a hundred coats-of-arms.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Simple virtue and youth are more valuable than inherited status or military power.
- In plain terms
- A good young person is worth more than many powerful warriors.
- What can you take from it?
- Character outweighs rank.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What matters more in a partner: status or character?
- Is nobility born or made?
Another view
It idealizes simplicity without addressing real power dynamics.
More from Alfred (Lord) Tennyson
Lady Clara Vere de Vere, Of me you shall not win renown: You thought to break a country heart For pastime, ere you went to town. At me you smiled, but unbeguil…
Permalink to quote #73 You sought to prove how I could love, And my disdain is my reply. The lion on your old stone gates Is not more cold to you than I.
Permalink to quote #75 So variously seem'd all things wrought, I marvell'd how the mind was brought To anchor by one gloomy thought; And wherefore rather I made choice To commune wit…
Permalink to quote #72
Related quotes
As shines the moon in clouded skies, She in her poor attire was seen; One praised her ankles, one her eyes, One her dark hair and lovesome mien. So sweet a fac…
Alfred (Lord) TennysonAlfred (Lord) Tennyson quote #21 I observed, 'Love is the fulfilling of the law, the end of the commandment.' It is not only 'the first and great' command, but all the commandments in one. 'Wh…
John WesleyJohn Wesley quote #1 Goodness is achieved not in a vacuum, but in the company of other men, attended by love.
Saul BellowSaul Bellow quote #1