Distichs of Cato
The Distichs of Cato is a Latin collection of proverbial wisdom and morality by an unknown author from the 3rd or 4th century AD. The Cato was the most popular medieval schoolbook for teaching Latin, prized not only as a Latin textbook, but as a moral compass. Cato was in common use as a Latin teaching aid in the 18th century when it was used by Benjamin Franklin. It was one of the best-known book
"Try not with words the talker to outdo; On all is speech bestowed: good sense on few. (10) Love others so that thourt to self a friend; Prefer the good and thus dire harm forfend. (11) On others promise do not base thine own; Talk doth abound: good faith is rarely shown. (13)"
Distichs of Cato"Deo supplica. Parentes ama. Cognatos cole."
Distichs of Cato"When I noticed how very many go seriously wrong in their manner of living I concluded that I must apply a corrective to their belief and take counsel of the experience of mankind in order that they may live most gloriously and attain honor. Now I will teach thee, dearest son, in what way thou mayest fashion a rule for thy life. Therefore, so read my precepts that thou mayest understand them, for to read and not to understand is equivalent to not reading."
Distichs of Cato"Let not despair oer ill thy courage take; Not een at death doth hope a man forsake. (25) Observe whats past and what may next ensue And Janus-like keep both ways under view. (27) Disdain not, arrogant, what most advise; Thou none canst please while thou dost all despise. (29) Guard well thy health with special care and skill; Thyself and not the seasons blame when ill. (30)"
Distichs of Cato
