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So in the Libyan fable it is told That once an eagle, stricken with a dart, Said, when he saw the fashion of the shaft: With our own feathers, not by others' hands, Are we now smitten.
Aeschylus
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Our own actions and choices can lead to our downfall.

This quote from Aeschylus reflects on the idea that the struggles and hardships we face are often a result of our own decisions and actions rather than external forces. The eagle, wounded by a dart made from its own feathers, symbolizes how we can be harmed by our creations or choices, reminding us to take responsibility for our circumstances and be mindful of the consequences of our actions.

Themes

ResponsibilityChoicesConsequencesSelf-ReflectionWisdom

In practice

Example use cases

This quote is perfect for a discussion on personal accountability in a self-improvement seminar.

More from Aeschylus

A god implants in mortal guilt whenever he wants utterly to confound a house.
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Neither a life of anarchy nor a life under a despot should you praise. To all that lies in the middle has a god given excellence.
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In every tyrant's heart there springs in the end this poison, that he cannot trust a friend.
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It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath.
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In war, truth is the first casualty.
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There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief.
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