"We Greeks are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness"

In this quote, Thucydides discuss numerous deeply rooted elements of ancient Greek culture and ethos that continue to resonate today. To start with, he acknowledges the Greek admiration for beauty, a sentiment that is prevalent in many elements of Greek society, from their art and architecture to their philosophy and literature. The ancient Greeks were leaders in the pursuit of aesthetic excellence, placing high value on percentage, harmony, and balance. This pursuit was not superficial; rather, it was linked with moral and intellectual virtues, suggesting that charm was to be appreciated in conjunction with other qualities of a great life.

Thucydides likewise highlights the simplicity in taste, suggesting a lifestyle that values small amounts and discernment over extravagance. This is reflective of the Greek suitable of 'sophrosyne,' a principle that equates to self-discipline and temperance. The simpleness mentioned here need to not be misinterpreted for a lack of gratitude for finer things, however rather a conscious option to prevent excess, which lines up with the philosophical teachings of figures like Socrates and later Stoics who promoted for a life of virtue over one of extravagance.

Furthermore, Thucydides speaks with the cultivation of the mind, underscoring the Greek dedication to intellectual development. The ancient Greeks held education and the pursuit of knowledge in high regard, contributing considerably to fields like viewpoint, science, and politics. This intellectual rigor was viewed as a course to accomplishing quality ('arete') and was not deemed contrary to the qualities of strength and nerve, but rather complementary.

The phrase "without loss of manliness" shows that the Greeks saw no conflict in between intellectual advancement and standard virtues of strength and bravery. This exposes a holistic approach to individual development, where psychological expertise and physical strength were both necessary elements of the perfect Greek resident. This balance between appeal, simplicity, intellectual, and physical strength defines the unified lifestyle that the Greeks desired and is reflective of their efforts to produce a well-rounded, dynamic society. Through this assertion, Thucydides records the essence of Greek culture and provides an ageless tip of the worth in balancing aesthetic appeals, simplicity, intellectual growth, and strength.