We alone regard a man who takes no interest in public affairs, not as a harmless, but as a useless character.
Athenian statesman
From Thucydides' 'History of the Peloponnesian War', Pericles' Funeral Oration. This is a highly provocative statement, essentially shaming those who are not politically active, which could be seen as divisive and intolerant of individual preferences.
431 BC (approximate, as recorded by Thucydides)
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"For the greatest glory is to be spoken of for one's virtues."
Shocking"Your empire is now like a tyranny: it may have been wrong to acquire it, but it is certainly dangerous to let it go."
Controversial"We are lovers of the beautiful, yet with economy."
Shocking"Who makes the fairest show means most deceit."
Humorous"Wait for that wisest of all counselors, Time."
Strange & Unusual