I love the old way best, the simple way of poison, where we too are strong as men.
EuripidesRead
There is nothing like the sight of an old enemy down on his luck.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that witnessing an adversary experiencing hardships can bring a sense of satisfaction or justice.
Euripides' quote reflects the human tendency to find enjoyment or a feeling of justice in the misfortunes of those who have wronged us or opposed us in the past. It taps into the emotions of rivalry and retribution, highlighting a darker aspect of human nature where we take pleasure in others' downfalls, particularly those we perceive as enemies. This sentiment can invoke discussions on morality, ethics, and the complexities of human relationships, illustrating how personal grievances often color our perceptions of others' struggles.
Themes
EnemyMisfortuneJusticeRivalrySatisfaction
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about overcoming challenges, one might reference this quote to illustrate the complexity of human emotions regarding opponents.
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.
EuripidesRead
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