Plutarch

I would rather excel in the knowledge of what is excellent, than in the extent of my power and possessions.

It is indeed a desirable thing to be well-descended, but the glory belongs to our ancestors.

I don't need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod; my shadow does that much better.

Perseverance is more prevailing than violence; and many things which cannot be overcome when they are together, yield themselves up when taken little by little.

An imbalance between rich and poor is the oldest and most fatal ailment of all republics.

For to err in opinion, though it be not the part of wise men, is at least human.

Prosperity is no just scale; adversity is the only balance to weigh friends.