I love the old way best, the simple way of poison, where we too are strong as men.
EuripidesRead
Only a madman would give good for evil
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that responding to wrongdoing with kindness is irrational and counterproductive.
Euripides' quote expresses a profound insight into human behavior and morality. It highlights the folly of rewarding bad actions with good intentions, emphasizing that such a reaction not only defies common sense but may also encourage further wrongdoing. It calls into question the wisdom of such responses, suggesting that they can lead to an imbalance in justice and personal integrity.
Themes
MadmanGoodEvilWisdomMorality
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about ethical responses to betrayal, this quote can emphasize the importance of maintaining integrity.
More from Euripides
All quotes βMankind . . . possesses two supreme blessings. First of these is the goddess Demeter, or Earth whichever name you choose to call her by. It was she who gave to man his nourishment of grain. But after her there came the son of Semele, who matched her present by inventing liquid wine as his gift to man. For filled with that good gift, suffering mankind forgets its grief; from it comes sleep; with it oblivion of the troubles of the day. There is no other medicine for misery.
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Money is far more persuasive than logical arguments.
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Those whom God wishes to destroy, he first makes mad.
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Who then will dare to say I'm weak or timid? No, they'll say I'm loyal as a friend, ruthless as a foe, so much like a hero destined for glory.
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Waste not fresh tears over old griefs.
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