If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.
Julius CaesarRead
I have always reckoned the dignity of the republic of first importance and preferable to life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the value of the state and its dignity over individual life.
Julius Caesar expresses his belief that the honor and dignity of the republic are paramount, surpassing even the significance of individual existence. This statement reflects a deep sense of duty to the collective and the idea that the health of the state takes precedence over personal survival or ambitions.
Themes
DignityRepublicImportanceLifeCollective
In practice
Example use cases
During a civic ceremony, one might quote this to emphasize patriotic values.
More from Julius Caesar
All quotes βWar gives the right to the conquerors to impose any condition they please upon the vanquished.
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As a rule, men worry more about what they can't see than about what they can.
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All bad precedents begin as justifiable measures.
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No one is so brave that he is not disturbed by something unexpected.
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What we wish, we readily believe, and what we ourselves think, we imagine others think also.
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