Quote by John Locke, Two Treatises of Gov
The great men among the ancients understood very well how to reconcile manual labour with affairs of state, and thought it no lessening to their dignity to make the one the recreation to the other. That indeed which seems most generally to have employed and diverted their spare hours, was agriculture. Gideon among the Jews was taken from threshing, as well as Cincinnatus amongst the Romans from the plough, to command the armies of their countries...and, as I remember, Cyrus thought gardening so little beneath the dignity and grandeur of a throne, that he showed Xenophon a large field of fruit trees all of his own planting . . . Delving, planting, inoculating, or any the like profitable employments would be no less a diversion than any of the idle sports in fashion, if men could be brought to delight in them.
Summary
This quote highlights the belief that engaging in manual labor, such as farming or gardening, was not seen as demeaning for great leaders in ancient times. In fact, these activities were often considered a source of recreation and even a way to reconnect with the land and nature. Examples of leaders being involved in manual labor, like Gideon and Cincinnatus, demonstrate that performing such tasks did not lessen their dignity or ability to govern. The quote suggests that if people could develop an appreciation for the productive and profitable aspects of labor, these activities could be just as enjoyable and fulfilling as idle pastimes.
Topics
Agriculture
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