Demetrius of Phalerum Quotes
Demetrius of Phalerum was a Peripatetic philosopher and Athenian statesman who governed Athens for ten years on behalf of Cassander before fleeing in exile to the court of Ptolemy I in Alexandria. A pupil of Theophrastus, he wrote prolifically on rhetoric, ethics, history, and politics, though only fragments and titles of his works survive. The quotes below are attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum, organized by topic.
Demetrius of Phalerum on Knowledge
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Attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum:
“Education is a possession that fortune cannot take away.”
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Attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum:
“Books are the most valuable possession of a kingdom.”
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Attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum:
“Speak briefly, for the wise listen well; the unwise will not listen however long you speak.”
Demetrius of Phalerum on Love
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Attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum:
“Friends are won by gifts of soul, not gifts of gold.”
Demetrius of Phalerum on Virtue
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Attributed to Demetrius of Phalerum:
“It is shameful to seek good fortune while neglecting the good.”