Cassiodorus quotes

Cassiodorus was a Roman statesman and writer, renowned for preserving classical knowledge during the decline of the Western Roman Empire. His efforts helped bridge the worlds of Roman culture and early medieval Christianity. He played a crucial role in the transmission of ancient learning by founding the Vivarium monastery. Here are 7 of his quotes:

For the school of grammar has primacy: it is the fairest foundation of learning, the glorious mother of eloquence.

Cassiodorus

Few men are controlled by reason, and few are pleased by a right purpose. The mob, rather, is led to what was plainly invented for oblivion of its cares. For it supposes that whatever serves its pleasure must also be linked to the happiness of the age. Therefore, let us grant the expenses, and not be forever giving from rational considerations. Sometimes it is useful to play the fool, and so control the joys the people long for.

Cassiodorus

But who looks for serious conduct at the public shows? A Cato never goes to the circus. Anything said there by the people as they celebrate should be deemed no injury. It is a place that protects excesses. Patient acceptance of their chatter is a proven glory of princes themselves.

Cassiodorus

For what is more glorious than music, which modulates the heavenly system with its sonorous sweetness, and binds together with its virtue the concord of nature which is scattered everywhere?

Cassiodorus

Grammar is the mistress of words, the embellisher of the human race; through the practice of the noble reading of ancient authors, she helps us, we know, by her counsels. The barbarian kings do not use her; as is well known, she remains unique to lawful rulers. For the tribes possess arms and the rest; rhetoric is found in sole obedience to the lords of the Romans.

Cassiodorus

Poverty is the mother of crime.

Cassiodorus