“The countenance is the portrait of the soul, and the eyes mark its intentions.”
- January 3, 106 BC – December 7, 43 BC
- Roman
- Orator, Philosopher, Statesman, Lawyer, Author
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Quote
“The countenance is the portrait of the soul, and the eyes mark its intentions.”
Explanation
Cicero here suggests that a person’s facial expression reveals their inner character, and that the eyes in particular betray one’s true thoughts and emotions. The “countenance”, or the face, serves as a visible reflection of the soul, conveying honesty, deceit, serenity, or agitation. The eyes, often called the windows to the soul, are portrayed as indicators of what one truly intends, even when words or actions may disguise it.
This idea is consistent with Cicero’s broader interest in rhetoric, ethics, and human nature. In an age when oratory and persuasion were vital in politics and courts, Cicero understood that nonverbal cues could be more revealing than speech. He regarded emotional intelligence and perceptiveness as essential traits for statesmen and philosophers alike. The quote aligns with Roman beliefs that virtue or vice manifests not only in actions, but even in one’s bearing.
In today’s world of digital communication and curated personas, Cicero’s insight serves as a reminder of the power of physical presence and human connection. Despite the proliferation of words and images, authenticity often shines through subtle expressions, particularly in the eyes. Whether in personal relationships or public interactions, this quote speaks to the enduring truth that what we are cannot be fully hidden—it often shows in how we look at others.
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