Meaning: This quote by Robert Cecil, a public servant and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I of England, provides an insightful perspective on how a wise person views others in society. The comparison of men to horses and their titles, wealth, and place to harnesses suggests that a wise individual sees beyond the external trappings of social status and material wealth, recognizing them as superficial adornments rather than true measures of worth.

When Cecil likens men to horses, he is likely alluding to the idea that both animals and people can be adorned with various trappings and symbols of status, power, and wealth. Horses may be decked out in ornate harnesses, bridles, or saddles, which symbolize their function or status as working animals, racehorses, or even symbols of wealth and prestige. Similarly, individuals in society may be adorned with titles, material possessions, and positions of power, which serve as their "harness" or outward symbols of social standing.

By likening these external markers of status to harnesses, Cecil suggests that a wise person does not place undue importance on these superficial trappings. Instead, they see through the external façade to the true nature of individuals. Just as a wise horseman evaluates a horse based on its innate qualities such as strength, temperament, and capabilities rather than its decorative harness, a wise individual evaluates others based on their intrinsic qualities, character, and virtues rather than their external titles, wealth, or position in society.

Furthermore, the quote implies that a wise person understands that titles, wealth, and place are transitory and ultimately do not define a person's worth. Harnesses can be changed or removed, just as titles and material wealth can fluctuate or be lost. A wise individual recognizes that true value lies in qualities such as integrity, wisdom, kindness, and moral character, which are not tied to external trappings but are enduring and authentic.

In the context of Cecil's own role as a public servant and advisor to the queen, the quote may also reflect his pragmatic and discerning approach to evaluating individuals within the complex web of courtly politics and power dynamics. In such a context, where individuals may vie for position and favor, Cecil's perspective underscores the importance of seeing beyond the superficial trappings of social hierarchy and recognizing the true qualities and capabilities of people.

Overall, the quote encourages us to adopt a more discerning and insightful approach to how we perceive and evaluate others in society. It reminds us to look beyond external titles, wealth, and positions and to recognize the intrinsic worth and qualities of individuals. It also serves as a reminder that true wisdom lies in seeing through the superficial trappings of social status and recognizing the enduring qualities that define a person's true value.