Quintilian

Date of Birth: 35 AD

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 100 AD

Biography

Marcus Fabius Quintilianus, commonly known as Quintilian, was a renowned Roman educator and rhetorician born in Calagurris (modern-day Calahorra, Spain). He is most famous for his work “Institutio Oratoria” (“Institutes of Oratory”), a comprehensive twelve-volume textbook on the theory and practice of rhetoric. Quintilian was a significant figure in Roman education, advocating for the moral and intellectual training of orators. He was appointed by Emperor Vespasian to the first public chair of rhetoric in Rome, where he taught many future statesmen and scholars. Quintilian’s educational philosophy emphasized the development of a student’s character and intellect, advocating for a broad and humane education grounded in moral integrity.

5 Interesting Facts about Quintilian

1. Quintilian was the first to receive a state salary for teaching rhetoric in Rome, highlighting the importance of his role in Roman education.

2. His work “Institutio Oratoria” is still studied today and remains a foundational text in the fields of rhetoric and education.

3. Quintilian believed that education should start from infancy and that the character of the teacher was as important as the curriculum.

4. He introduced the concept of “the good man speaking well” (vir bonus dicendi peritus), merging ethical instruction with rhetorical training.

5. Quintilian was a strong advocate for the liberal arts and believed that a well-rounded education was essential for developing effective orators.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Quintilian

1. “A liar should have a good memory.”

2. “We should not write so that it is possible for our readers to understand us, but so that it is impossible for them to misunderstand us.”

3. “It is the mind that makes the man, and our vigour is in our immortal soul.”

4. “The perfection of art is to conceal art.”

5. “The teacher must adopt the habit of speaking correctly; for the unformed minds of children accept any impression.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a Roman educator and rhetorician, Quintilian’s net worth in modern terms is not documented. However, his influence and the state salary he received were significant for his time.

Children

Quintilian had two sons, both of whom died young. His personal experiences with the loss of his children deeply influenced his writings on education and the development of youth.