I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Alexander the Great emphasizes the importance of mercy and the distinction between a just ruler and a tyrant.
In this quote, Alexander the Great captures the essence of true leadership by exhibiting mercy towards the messengers of his enemies. Instead of harming them, he allows them to witness the nobility and honor of a king, contrasting it with the cruelty often associated with tyrants. This statement reflects the principles of righteousness and moral conduct expected from those in power.
Themes
LeadershipMercyPowerRulershipJust
In practice
Example use cases
This quote would be powerful in a speech about leadership and ethics in governance.
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
In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
Alexander The GreatRead
But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
Alexander The GreatRead
A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
Alexander The GreatRead
I am dying with the help of too many physicians.
Alexander The GreatRead
Similar quotes
Except for the title 'father,' there is no title, including 'vice president,' that I am more proud to wear than that of United States senator.
Joe BidenRead
A major reason capable people fail to advance is that they don't work well with their colleagues.
Lee IacoccaRead
Next to doing the right thing, the most important thing is to let people know you are doing the right thing.
John D. RockefellerRead
I would not like to be the only woman on the court.
Ruth Bader GinsburgRead
I think we would be stronger if half our countries and companies were run by women and half our homes were run by men.
Sheryl SandbergRead
Paralysis of leadership is due in part to the unseen grip of the special interests.
John W. GardnerRead