"In outward show so splendid and so vain; 'tis but a gilded block without a brain"
- Phaedrus
About this Quote
This quote by Phaedrus is a commentary on the superficiality of outward appearances. It recommends that although somebody might seem excellent and grand on the outdoors, they may do not have the intelligence and wisdom to back it up. The phrase "gilded block" is a metaphor for an individual who is outwardly outstanding but does not have any real compound. The expression "without a brain" suggests that this individual is not intelligent or wise.
The quote is a caution versus evaluating individuals based upon their outside appearance. It suggests that we ought to look beyond the surface and consider the individual's character and intelligence prior to forming a viewpoint. It also acts as a tip that real worth is found within, not in outside show. It is essential to remember that charm and splendour are fleeting, but intelligence and knowledge are lasting.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"