In historical events great men - so-called - are but labels serving to give a name to the event, and like labels they have the least possible connection with the event itself. Every action of theirs, that seems to them an act of their own free will, is in an historical sense not free at all, but in bondage to the whole course of previous history, and predestined from all eternity.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Historical figures are symbols of events rather than true causes; their actions are constrained by prior history.
- In plain terms
- Great leaders are just labels for events and are not truly free to change history.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize that history drives individuals more than individuals drive history.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- To what extent do you control your path?
- Is history shaped by people or forces?
Another view
It underestimates the impact of individual innovation or rebellion.
More from Leo Tolstoy
You will die - and it will all be over. You will die and find out everything - or cease asking.
Permalink to quote #20 A king is history's slave.
Permalink to quote #22 Seize the moments of happiness, love and be loved! That is the only reality in the world, all else is folly. It is the one thing we are interested in here.
Permalink to quote #19
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