Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
True gentility requires both courage and courteous behavior.
In plain terms
Courteous manners are as important as bravery for a gentleman.
What can you take from it?
Be brave and polite.

Where it applies

  • social interaction
  • personal conduct

Putting it to work

  • practice politeness
  • value respect

Questions to consider

  • How do you show respect?
  • Is kindness brave?

Another view

Courage without courtesy can be destructive.

More from Theodore Roosevelt

  1. Character, in the long run, is the decisive factor in the life of an individual and of nations alike.

    Permalink to quote #69
  2. Every immigrant who comes here should be required within five years to learn English or leave the country.

    Permalink to quote #71
  3. Big jobs usually go to the men who prove their ability to outgrow small ones.

    Permalink to quote #68

Related quotes

  1. So I'll meet 'im later on At the place where 'e is gone - Where it's always double drill and no canteen. 'E'll be squattin' on the coals Givin' drink to poor d…

    Rudyard KiplingRudyard Kipling quote #28
  2. A moral, sensible, and well-bred man Will not affront me, and no other can.

    William CowperWilliam Cowper quote #40
  3. Manners: 'No one is more insufferable than he who lacks basic courtesy.'

    Bryant McGillBryant McGill quote #84