I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
Alexander The GreatRead
Your ancestors came to Macedonia and the rest of Hellas [Greece] and did us great harm, though we had done them no prior injury. I have been appointed leader of the Greeks, and wanting to punish the Persians I have come to Asia, which I took from you.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects Alexander's justification for his campaign against Persia, emphasizing historical grievances.
In this quote, Alexander the Great expresses his resolve to take revenge on the Persians for historical wrongs committed by their ancestors against his people. By framing his military campaign as a response to previous injustices, he legitimizes his actions and highlights the complexities of ancient conflicts, where historical animosities shape present encounters.
Themes
RevengeHistoryLeadershipConflictAncestors
In practice
Example use cases
In a historical debate about the consequences of past conflicts, this quote can illustrate the cyclical nature of revenge.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes →Are you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
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Now you fear punishment and beg for your lives, so I will let you free, if not for any other reason so that you can see the difference between a Greek king and a barbarian tyrant, so do not expect to suffer any harm from me. A king does not kill messengers.
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In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
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But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
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A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
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