The desire for fame is the last infirmity of noble minds
Greatness is often described as the conquest of one’s own ambitions. A great man, it is expected, does his duty for its own cake, without looking forward to any reward or praise. He works in a selfless, detached spirit and considers work to be its own reward. This conception of a great man is, however, too lofty to be true. Milton, the author of the above famous quotation, has well said that a noble soul may conquer all weakness that flesh is heir to but he cannot override the desire to acquire fame. Greed, jealousy, malice, dishonesty and avarice—these and many other failings may be overcome by a great man, but the lust for fame is too powerful a temptation to be overcome. History supports this view to a large extent. Even some of the greatest leaders of mankind, who sacrificed life and limbs for great causes, could not suppress the temptation to become famous in the world. An average human being cannot be entirely selfless and detached. It is only a son of God like Christ or Buddha who has no desire in life except the pursuit of truth and righteousness.
