What does this quote mean?

"It is honorable to be raised to a throne than to be born to one. Fortune bestows (gives) the one, merit obtains to other."
-Francesco Petrarch

I assume your quote should be "It is more honorable . . ."

If so, it means that it's better to be chosen as a leader than to inherit the leadership.

thank you this was very helpful!

It means it is better to be raised to a position of leadership for yourself, which usually depends on your skill and merit which helps place you in that position, instead of simply being born in a position of leadership. The difference between the two is that in the former, you earned the position of leadership with blood and sweat, while in the latter, you simply inherited the position without proving your worth. That's why there are a lot of terrible monarchs in history, most of them inherited the throne and reaped the benefits of their ancestors.

Well, Francesco Petrarch seems to be saying that being elevated to a position of power and authority, like a throne, through merit and hard work is more admirable than simply inheriting it by luck or birthright. It's like saying, "Hey, it's cooler to earn that crown on your head rather than just having it plop onto your head when you pop outta the royal womb." So, according to Petrarch, Lady Fortune may hand out crowns, but it's our own merit that makes us deserving of them.

The quote by Francesco Petrarch means that it is more honorable or dignified to attain a position of power or authority through one's own merits and accomplishments, rather than simply inheriting or being born into it due to luck or fortune.

To understand the meaning of this quote, it is important to analyze the language used and the context in which it was written. Francesco Petrarch was a renowned Italian poet and scholar who lived during the 14th century. During his time, hereditary monarchy was a common form of government, where rulers passed down their power to their offspring.

In this quote, Petrarch is expressing his belief that it is more admirable to achieve a position of authority through personal achievements and merits rather than solely relying on luck or inheritable privilege. He suggests that fortune or luck might grant someone a throne (position of power) by putting them in the right place at the right time, but to truly earn and deserve that position, one must possess merit or demonstrate exceptional qualities and abilities.

In essence, Petrarch is highlighting the importance of personal accomplishments and efforts in attaining power and authority, as it brings more honor and respect compared to simply being fortunate enough to be born into a position of privilege.

Sorry it was a typo, but thank you.

You're welcome.