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About this quote

What does it mean?
Rochester implies that foolishness has been a constant trait since the Norman Conquest.
In plain terms
People have been foolish since the Conquest.
What can you take from it?
Foolishness is a long-standing historical trait.

Where it applies

  • discussing historical patterns
  • commenting on society

Putting it to work

  • reflecting on historical folly
  • critiquing human behavior

Questions to consider

  • Have people changed over time?
  • Does history repeat itself?

Another view

It is overly cynical to say every person since the Conquest has been a fool.

More from John, 2nd Earl of Rochester Wilmot

  1. Here lies our sovereign lord the king, Whose word no man relies on; He never says a foolish thing, Nor ever does a wise one.

    Permalink to quote #30
  2. But a meek humble Man of modest Sense, Who, Preaching Peace, does practice Continence; Whose pious life's a proof he does believe, Mysterious Truths, which no …

    Permalink to quote #29
  3. Most Men are Cowards, all Men should be Knaves. The Difference lies, as far as I can see, Not in the thing it self, but the Degree.

    Permalink to quote #28

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