What does this quote mean?

When private men shall act with original views, the lustre will be transferred from the actions of kings to those of gentlemen.

Most of the focus of my question is on the first part of the quote (When private men shall act with original views). What does Ralpf Waldo Emerson mean by this?

Top 3 Answers

A few days ago

Anonymous

Favorite Answer

I think it means, that when private men, or just ordinary people, act with original views, in other words their own thoughts and feelings based upon the way they actually believe, not those based upon views and actions of others just because “that’s the way it’s always been”. Then the magnificence of those actions will be transferred from the likes of kings to those of ordinary men.

A few days ago

Morgan S

I believe he is talking about the “common” man, their learning to think for themselves, to have their own ideas and to put these thoughts in to action. When that happen the “royalty” or others who rule will will not be viewed as superior. Thus the common man is raised to a higher level.

A few days ago

Anonymous

when normal people stop just being followers…

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