To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it; to go through intrigue spotless; and to forgo even ambition when the end is gained-who can say this is not greatness?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Greatness is defined not by bold actions but by enduring hardship and maintaining integrity.
- In plain terms
- Standing firm in hard times is true greatness.
- What can you take from it?
- Perseverance and integrity define greatness more than bravery.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is enduring pain harder than taking a risk?
Another view
It overlooks the value of taking bold risks for change.
More from William Makepeace Thackeray
Next to the very young, I suppose the very old are the most selfish.
Permalink to quote #44 Bravery never goes out of fashion.
Permalink to quote #46 I never know whether to pity or congratulate a man on coming to his senses.
Permalink to quote #43
Related quotes
Heroism is endurance for one moment more.
George F. KennanGeorge F. Kennan quote #28 'Pain is temporary, glory...lasts forever!'
George BestGeorge Best quote #1 My solar plexus was tight with fear as I ploughed on. Halfway up I stopped, exhausted. I could look down 10,000 feet between my legs, and I have never felt mor…
Edmund HillaryEdmund Hillary quote #1