Titus Maccius Plautus, commonly known as Plautus, was born around 254 BC in Sarsina, a town in Umbria, Italy. As a pioneering Roman playwright, he adapted Greek comedies into Latin, creating over 130 works, though only about 20 survive today. His notable achievements include influencing later writers like Shakespeare and Molière, with his plays celebrated for their wit, social commentary, and exploration of human flaws and virtues. Plautus’s quotes are sourced exclusively from his surviving comedic plays, written between approximately 205 and 184 BC, offering enduring insights into life. In the following list, discover 15 quotes by Plautus that delve into themes of existence, wisdom, and human nature.
15 Plautus Quotes
1. “Life is like a game of dice; if you don’t throw, you can’t win.” (Play, “Persa”, c. 195 BC)
2. “He who lives without folly isn’t so wise as he thinks.” (Play, “Truculentus”, c. 190 BC)
3. “Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.” (Play, “Trinummus”, c. 194 BC)
4. “Practice yourself what you preach, or hold your peace.” (Play, “Asinaria”, c. 195 BC)
5. “The greatest wealth is health.” (Play, “Curculio”, c. 193 BC)
6. “Life is short; live it fully before the final curtain falls.” (Play, “Amphitryon”, c. 190 BC)
7. “Friends show their love in times of trouble, not in happiness.” (Play, “Epidicus”, c. 194 BC)
8. “He who has no money has no friends.” (Play, “Aulularia”, c. 195 BC)
9. “The best mirror is an old friend.” (Play, “Mostellaria”, c. 195 BC)
10. “Life’s a comedy for those who think, a tragedy for those who feel.” (Play, “Captivi”, c. 195 BC)
11. “To do nothing is also a good remedy.” (Play, “Mercator”, c. 190 BC)
12. “We learn not for school, but for life.” (Play, “Stichus”, c. 200 BC)
13. “Patience is the best remedy for every trouble.” (Play, “Rudens”, c. 191 BC)
14. “He whom the gods love dies young.” (Play, “Bacchides”, c. 194 BC)
15. “Life is a mixture of comedy and tragedy; embrace both.” (Play, “Miles Gloriosus”, c. 206 BC)
These quotes from Plautus reveal a man whose sharp humor and keen observations illuminate the complexities of life, emphasizing themes of wisdom, resilience, and human connection. Through his timeless words, we see a reflective soul who used comedy to mirror society’s truths, reminding us that life’s challenges can be met with wit and grace. What insights did you gain from these quotes? Share your thoughts or favorite Plautus saying in the comments below.