A god implants in mortal guilt whenever he wants utterly to confound a house.
AeschylusRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote advocates for a balanced life between chaos and tyranny, emphasizing the value of moderation.
Aeschylus, through this quote, suggests that neither extreme forms of governance—anarchy nor despotism—should be commended. Instead, he highlights the virtues and inherent excellence found in a balanced and moderate way of life, which aligns with the belief that stability and order can lead to a more righteous existence.
Themes
BalanceModerationExcellenceLifePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on governance, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of political moderation.
More from Aeschylus
All quotes →In every tyrant's heart there springs in the end this poison, that he cannot trust a friend.
AeschylusRead
It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath.
AeschylusRead
In war, truth is the first casualty.
AeschylusRead
There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief.
AeschylusRead
When a match has equal partners then I fear not.
AeschylusRead
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