Wealth stays with us a little moment if at all: only our characters are steadfast, not our gold

Wealth stays with us a little moment if at all: only our characters are steadfast, not our gold

In the world of ancient Greek tragedy, the concept of wealth and its fleeting nature was a common theme explored by playwrights such as Euripides. In his plays, Euripides often delved into the complexities of human nature and the impact that material possessions can have on individuals. One of his most famous quotes, "Wealth stays with us a little moment if at all: only our characters are steadfast, not our gold," encapsulates this idea perfectly.

Euripides understood that wealth, while desirable and often sought after, is ultimately transient. In the grand scheme of things, material possessions hold little value compared to the enduring qualities of a person's character. This sentiment is echoed in many of his plays, where characters are often faced with moral dilemmas that test their integrity and values.

One of Euripides' most famous works, "Medea," is a prime example of how wealth can corrupt and ultimately destroy a person's character. In the play, the titular character, Medea, is consumed by jealousy and rage after her husband, Jason, betrays her for a younger woman. In her quest for revenge, Medea resorts to extreme measures, including murdering her own children, in order to punish Jason for his betrayal.

Through the character of Medea, Euripides explores the destructive power of wealth and how it can warp a person's sense of morality. Despite her initial status as a wealthy and respected woman, Medea's actions ultimately reveal the true nature of her character - one driven by vengeance and despair.