Aeschylus

Aeschylus (c. 525–456 BCE) was an ancient Greek tragedian who expanded dramatic form and is often called the father of tragedy. His surviving works include the Oresteia trilogy; the quoted line reflects his recurring theme that suffering leads to wisdom.

Quotes by Aeschylus

Quotes: 4

Wisdom comes alone through suffering. — Aeschylus

The Crucible of Suffering on the Path to Wisdom

From the ancient world to modern philosophy, suffering is often framed as an ethical instructor. In Viktor Frankl’s memoir, 'Man’s Search for Meaning' (1946), his harrowing experiences in concentration camps reveal suffering’s role in clarifying one’s values and priorities. People emerge from such crucibles with sharpened compassion, humility, and moral clarity—virtues that the untested seldom possess. [...]

Created on: 5/28/2025

He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep, pain that cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart. — Aeschylus

Suffering as a Path to Learning - Aeschylus

Suggests that hardship is not meaningless, but rather a source of growth, empathy, and understanding. [...]

Created on: 4/26/2025

Act with Intention, for Every Action Shapes the World - Aeschylus

By urging people to act intentionally, the quote encourages ethical behavior. It suggests that individuals have a duty to think carefully about their actions and their potential effects on others. [...]

Created on: 3/8/2025

From a Small Seed, a Mighty Trunk May Grow - Aeschylus

The process of growing from a seed to a mighty trunk requires patience and perseverance. This underscores the idea that significant outcomes take time and consistent effort to achieve. [...]

Created on: 7/19/2024