They say princes learn no art truly, but the art of horsemanship. The reason is, the brave beast is no flatterer. He will throw a prince as soon as his groom.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Horses teach princes humility because they do not flatter or spare them.
- In plain terms
- Princes learn best from horses because they treat everyone the same.
- What can you take from it?
- Learn from honest feedback even if it hurts.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do leaders learn?
- Is honesty always helpful?
Another view
Not all leaders learn well from hard lessons.
More from Ben Jonson
I loved the man [Shakespeare] and do honor his memory, on this side idolatry, as much as any.
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