Caesar was a man of great common sense and good taste, meaning thereby a man without originality or moral courage.

In this quote, George Bernard Shaw critiques Julius Caesar by suggesting that while he was a man of common sense and good taste, these qualities, in Shaw’s view, also implied a lack of originality and moral courage. Shaw seems to imply that Caesar's reliance on practicality and conformity led him to avoid taking bold or unconventional actions that might have required greater personal risk or ethical defiance. By valuing common sense and good taste, Caesar may have played it safe, avoiding the kind of innovative or principled decisions that require true courage and creativity.

Shaw’s interpretation of Caesar contrasts with the traditional view of the Roman leader as a strategic and dynamic military genius. While Caesar was undoubtedly highly effective in his campaigns and political maneuvering, Shaw’s quote suggests that his pragmatism and desire to maintain the status quo might have limited his imagination and willingness to challenge the moral and social norms of his time. In Shaw’s eyes, originality and moral courage—qualities that push boundaries and challenge authority—are what truly define greatness, not just practical intelligence.

The origin of this quote lies in Shaw’s usual style of sharp criticism and irony, often targeting historical figures and conventional beliefs. Shaw, a playwright and critic, was known for his ability to dissect human nature and challenge societal norms. His words here reflect his preference for individualism, innovation, and moral integrity, which he believed were necessary for true greatness.

Ultimately, Shaw's quote reflects his belief that real greatness is not simply about being successful through calculated decisions, but about having the courage to think and act in ways that are original and morally courageous, even when it is difficult or unpopular.