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?
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In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
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But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
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A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
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I am dying with the help of too many physicians.
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