Euripides
(c. 480–406 BCE) was an ancient Greek playwright and one of the three great tragedians alongside Sophocles and Aeschylus. His plays, including "Medea" and "The Bacchae," explore human emotions, morality, and societal norms. Euripides is known for his complex characters and psychological depth. His work challenged traditional beliefs and introduced more realistic portrayals of people. Euripides’s legacy continues to influence theatre and literature worldwide.
12 quotes in this collection. Read them below, share your favourites, or follow the related links to explore similar voices.
All quotes by Euripides
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“Silence is true wisdom’s best reply.”
Meaning: Sometimes wisdom lies in restraint. Silence can be more powerful than unnecessary speech. -
“No one is happy all his life.”
Meaning: Life contains both joy and suffering. This quote reflects the inevitable balance of human experience. -
“He is not a lover who does not love forever.”
Meaning: Euripides defines true love as enduring and constant, not temporary or conditional. -
“The tongue swears, but the mind is unsworn.”
Meaning: Words do not always reflect true intentions. This quote highlights the gap between speech and thought. -
“The wisest men follow their own direction.”
Meaning: True wisdom lies in self-awareness and independence. This quote emphasizes trusting your own judgment and path instead of blindly following others. -
“When love is in excess, it brings a man no honor nor worthiness.”
Meaning: Excessive emotion can lead to imbalance and loss of dignity. Euripides warns against uncontrolled passion. -
“Waste not fresh tears over old griefs.”
Meaning: Dwelling on past pain prevents healing. Euripides encourages moving forward instead of reliving sorrow. -
“Friends show their love in times of trouble, not in happiness.”
Meaning: Real friendship is revealed during difficult moments rather than during times of joy. This quote emphasizes that true friends stand by you in hardship, proving their loyalty and care through actions. -
“Talk sense to a fool and he calls you foolish.”
Meaning: People who lack understanding often reject truth and wisdom. This quote highlights the challenge of communicating with closed-minded individuals and the importance of discernment. -
“Chance fights ever on the side of the prudent.”
Meaning: Preparation and wisdom improve outcomes. Luck often favors those who act thoughtfully. -
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”
Meaning: Helping others gives life purpose and value. This quote highlights that even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference, proving that everyone has something valuable to contribute. -
“The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life.”
Meaning: Moderation is key to stability and well-being. Euripides emphasizes avoiding extremes.