Quote by Francis Bacon
Certainly virtue is like precious odors, most fragrant when they are incensed, or crushed: for prosperity doth best discover vice, but adversity doth best discover virtue.
Summary
This quote suggests that virtue is comparable to a scent that is most potent and noticeable when it is tested or challenged. It implies that during times of prosperity, vices and negative qualities are more likely to surface and be revealed. On the other hand, during difficult and trying times, true virtue and noble characteristics tend to shine through and become most apparent. Adversity, therefore, has the ability to bring out the best in people and expose their inner strength and goodness.