Only a stomach that rarely feels hungry scorns common things.
HoraceRead
Many heroes lived before Agamemnon; but all are unknown and unwept, extinguished in everlasting night, because they have no spirited chronicler.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Without recognition and storytelling, the deeds of many may fade into obscurity.
This quote by Horace reflects on the importance of historians and storytellers in preserving the legacies of individuals. It suggests that many great heroes existed before the well-known figures like Agamemnon, yet they remain unrecognized and forgotten because they lacked someone to document their lives and achievements, highlighting the role of memory and narrative in shaping history.
Themes
HistoryMemoryLegacyHeroesStorytelling
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of preserving history, you could say, 'Many heroes lived before Agamemnon; but all are unknown and unwept.'
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