This quote contrasts the fears of the classical man, or the man of the past, with the modern man, or the man of today. The classical man’s worst fear was an inglorious death, meaning a death that lacked honor or was shameful. This suggests that the classical man placed a high value on honor, glory, and how he was perceived by others, even in death.

On the other hand, the modern man’s worst fear is simply death itself. This could imply that the modern man is more concerned with the act of dying and the cessation of life than with the circumstances or honor surrounding his death. This shift in fear could be seen as a reflection of changes in societal values over time, with modern society placing a higher value on life and survival, possibly due to advancements in medicine and technology that have extended life expectancy and improved quality of life.

In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various ways. For instance, it could be used to understand the motivations behind people’s actions and decisions. If the fear of death is a primary driving force, people might be more likely to prioritize safety, security, and health above other considerations such as honor or reputation. This could also explain why some people might avoid taking risks or stepping out of their comfort zones, as these actions could potentially bring them closer to their worst fear.

In terms of personal development, this quote could serve as a reminder to consider what truly matters in life. If one’s worst fear is death, it might be worth asking why that is and what could be done to mitigate that fear. This could involve focusing on improving one’s health and well-being, creating a life that one finds fulfilling and meaningful, or developing a spiritual or philosophical perspective that helps one come to terms with the inevitability of death. Conversely, if one’s worst fear is an inglorious death, they might focus on building a life that is honorable and respected, even if it involves taking risks or facing challenges.