The Art of Worldly Wisdom


Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(5 stars; 21 reviews)

300 short maxims by Spanish Jesuit Baltasar Gracian (1601-1658). The advice is still useful and insightful for our modern world. Gracian was considered one of the most interesting philosophers by both Nietzsche und Schopenhauer, and the latter translated The Art of Worldly Wisdom into German. This English translation was done by the famous Australian fairy-tale collector Joseph Jacobs (1854-1916). - Summary by Sandra Schmit (5 hr 27 min)

Chapters

Dedication, Preface and Testimonia 12:35 Read by Sonia
Introduction 39:03 Read by cathar maiden
To the reader; Maxims 1-10 8:36 Read by cathar maiden
Maxims 11-20 9:10 Read by cathar maiden
Maxims 21-30 7:55 Read by cathar maiden
Maxims 31-40 8:33 Read by cathar maiden
Maxims 41-50 9:06 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 51-60 7:24 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 61-70 9:50 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 71-80 8:12 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 81-90 8:28 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 91-100 6:39 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 101-110 9:57 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 111-120 9:21 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 121-130 9:07 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 131-140 11:35 Read by Ken Masters
Maxims 141-150 10:48 Read by Wayne Cooke
Maxims 151-160 11:20 Read by Tina Ding
Maxims 161-170 10:06 Read by Tina Ding
Maxims 171-180 11:47 Read by Ken Masters
Maxims 181-190 9:51 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 191-200 8:56 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 201-210 9:51 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 211-220 9:17 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 221-230 9:06 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 231-240 9:05 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 241-250 8:25 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 251-260 9:24 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 261-270 7:25 Read by Davi Bicudo
Maxims 271-280 9:50 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 281-290 7:49 Read by Sonrisa Jones
Maxims 291-300 9:27 Read by Sonrisa Jones

Reviews

Life’s Wisdom


(5 stars)

These maxims explore themes of social conduct, personal strategy, and power dynamics, offering insights applicable to various aspects of life. There is something here for everyone - whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or times of crisis. The tone throughout is consistently positive, encouraging reflection and self-improvement. This relatively unknown work has had a profound influence on many prominent figures. Elon Musk, for instance, considers it one of his favorite books, drawing inspiration from its succinct wisdom. The collection also inspired modern bestsellers like Robert Greene’s “The 48 Laws of Power". Although often compared to Machiavelli’s “The Prince", the tone and approach of Gracian’s maxims differ significantly, emphasizing moral prudence over manipulation. I highly recommend everyone acquire this book and keep it within easy reach - perhaps on your bedside table or study desk - to consult regularly over a morning coffee or evening tea.

Awesome.... very inspiring


(5 stars)

This is a must read for those that are aspiring for any leadership roles.

Thanks for the readings


(5 stars)

Good book, great points.