"Greater things are believed of those who are absent"

This quote by Tacitus speaks with the power of perception and how it can shape our view of someone. It recommends that when somebody is absent, we tend to think more highly of them than if they existed. This might be due to the fact that we don't need to face the truth of their flaws and imperfections, and rather can concentrate on the positive elements of their character. We may also be more likely to provide the benefit of the doubt, and presume that they can great things. This quote can also be interpreted as a warning against forming viewpoints of individuals without knowing them, as we may be too quick to ascribe achievement to them without any evidence. Ultimately, this quote works as a suggestion to be conscious of our perceptions and to not let them be clouded by our own biases.