I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
Alexander The GreatRead
Holy shadows of the dead, I'm not to blame for your cruel and bitter fate, but the accursed rivalry which brought sister nations and brother people, to fight one another. I do not feel happy for this victory of mine. On the contrary, I would be glad, brothers, if I had all of you standing here next to me, since we are united by the same language, the same blood and the same visions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the pain of conflict among people who share deep connections, such as language and heritage.
In this quote, Alexander the Great conveys a profound sense of sorrow and regret over the consequences of war and rivalry among nations that should be united. He emphasizes that while he may have achieved victory, it comes at the cost of shared bonds that should have brought people together, highlighting the futility of conflict among those who share similar identities and aspirations.
Themes
WarBrotherhoodVictorySadnessUnityRivalryLanguageHeritage
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on the impacts of war, this quote can highlight the emotional cost of conflict among people.
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?
Alexander The GreatRead
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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