The quote essentially reflects on the value and cost of acquiring knowledge, specifically in the context of learning Greek and Latin. These languages are referred to as “great and handsome ornaments,” suggesting that they are seen as valuable, prestigious or impressive accomplishments. However, Montaigne points out that we “buy them too dear,” implying that the effort, time or resources required to learn these languages may outweigh their practical utility.
In a broader sense, this quote can be interpreted as a commentary on education and personal development. It suggests a need for balance between pursuit of knowledge for its own sake (represented by learning Greek and Latin) versus practicality—learning things which have immediate applicability in one’s life.
Applying this idea to today’s world: In an era where information is easily accessible via technology but time is increasingly scarce, it becomes crucial to prioritize what we learn. While it’s beneficial to pursue intellectual interests like learning ancient languages or studying abstract concepts for personal enrichment, one must also consider the ‘cost’ involved—not just financial but also in terms of time commitment and opportunity cost.
For instance, spending years studying an obscure subject might be intellectually satisfying but could potentially limit opportunities if that knowledge isn’t directly applicable in today’s job market. On the other hand, focusing solely on ‘practical’ skills might provide immediate benefits but could leave us intellectually unfulfilled.
This quote therefore encourages reflection on our educational choices—advising us not only to consider what we gain from our studies (the ornament), but also what we give up (the cost). Ultimately it underlines the importance of striking a balance between pursuing passion projects and acquiring skills with real-world applicability.
