The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
Following Emporer Nero's command, "Let the Christians be exterminated!:" . . . they [the Christians] were made the subjects of sport; they were covered with the hides of wild beasts and worried to death by dogs, or nailed to crosses or set fire to, and when the day waned, burned to serve for the evening lights.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the brutal persecution faced by early Christians, emphasizing their courage in the face of extreme adversity.
Tacitus describes the horrific treatment of Christians under Emperor Nero's rule, portraying their suffering as a stark reminder of the cruelty that can arise from tyranny. This vivid imagery not only serves to document the historical events but also underlines the resilience and courage of those who stand firm in their beliefs, even when faced with death, illustrating the profound human spirit's capacity to endure oppressive regimes.
Themes
PersecutionCourageFaithSufferingResilience
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech to highlight the importance of standing up against oppression.
More from Tacitus
All quotes →In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
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