"A good historian is timeless; although he is a patriot, he will never flatter his country in any respect"
- Francois Fenelon
About this Quote
This quote by Francois Fenelon speaks to the importance of objectivity in the practice of history. A good historian is one who is not swayed by their own personal biases or patriotism. They need to have the ability to take a look at the truths objectively and without prejudice. An excellent historian will never misshape the truth or flatter their nation in any method. They must have the ability to take a look at the past with an impartial eye and want to accept the fact, no matter how uneasy it may be. This quote highlights the significance of being able to take a look at history objectively and without predisposition. It is a pointer that a good historian must want to accept the truth, no matter how tough it might be.