If a gentleman happens to be born in a stable, it does not follow that he should be called a horse.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker argues that background does not define character or worth.
- In plain terms
- Where you are born does not dictate what you are.
- What can you take from it?
- Do not judge people by their origins.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you judge character?
Another view
Origins can influence opportunities regardless of character.
More from Arthur Wellesley
'Tis of no matter, your Highness, I have seen their backs before.
Permalink to quote #31 The Battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton.
Permalink to quote #33 [I don't] care a twopenny damn what [becomes] of the ashes of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Permalink to quote #30
Related quotes
One should judge a man mainly from his depravities. Virtues can be faked. Depravities are real.
Klaus KinskiKlaus Kinski quote #1 The Angel of Death has been abroad throughout the land; you may almost hear the beating of his wings. There is no one, as when the first-born were slain of old…
John BrightJohn Bright quote #1 A wikked tonge wol alway deme amis.
John LydgateJohn Lydgate quote #1