I have a private theory, Sir, that there are no heroes and no monsters in this world. Only children should be allowed to use these words
Alfred De VignyRead
The existence of the soldier, next to capital punishment, is the most grievous vestige of barbarism which survives among men.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The soldier's existence symbolizes a lingering brutality in human society akin to capital punishment.
Alfred De Vigny's quote suggests that the role of soldiers, who are often required to kill or act violently in the name of duty, is one of the most harsh reminders of humanity's barbaric tendencies. He implies that the need for military force signals a failure in civilization, as it echoes the primitive instincts of violence and punishment that should have been transcended.
Themes
SoldierBarbarismViolenceSocietyCapital Punishment
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the human cost of conflict, this quote can highlight the moral implications of military service.
More from Alfred De Vigny
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Of what use is the memory of facts, if not to serve as an example of good or of evil?
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