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[93] 27. We have next to discuss the one remaining 1 division of moral rectitude. That is the one [p. 97] in which we find considerateness and self-control, which give, as it were, a sort of polish to life; it embraces also temperance, complete subjection of all the passions, and moderation in all things. Under this head is further included what, in Latin,2 may be called decorum3 (propriety); for in Greek it is called πρέπον.4 Such is its essential nature, that it is inseparable from moral goodness;

1 D. Temperance.

2 Propriety.

3 Decorum, Cicero's attempt to translate πρέπον, means an appreciation of the fitness of things, propriety in inward feeling or outward appearance, in speech, behaviour, dress, etc. Decorum is as difficult to translate into English as πρέπον is to reproduce in Latin; as an adjective, it is here rendered by ' proper,' as a noun, by ' propriety.'

4 Decorum, Cicero's attempt to translate πρέπον, means an appreciation of the fitness of things, propriety in inward feeling or outward appearance, in speech, behaviour, dress, etc. Decorum is as difficult to translate into English as πρέπον is to reproduce in Latin; as an adjective, it is here rendered by ' proper,' as a noun, by ' propriety.'

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load focus Notes (Walter Miller, 1913)
load focus Introduction (Walter Miller, 1913)
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hide References (3 total)
  • Cross-references in indexes to this page (3):
    • M. Tullius Cicero, De Officiis: index, Patriotism
    • M. Tullius Cicero, De Officiis: index, Propriety
    • M. Tullius Cicero, De Officiis: index, Temperance
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