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About this quote

What does it mean?
Bacchus represents a god created to justify drinking and excessive behavior in ancient times.
In plain terms
Ancient people invented a god to excuse their drinking.
What can you take from it?
Myths often justify human vices.

Where it applies

  • analyzing myths
  • discussing history
  • exploring vice

Putting it to work

  • study mythology
  • analyze behavior
  • explore history

Questions to consider

  • Do we create myths to excuse bad behavior?
  • Why do cultures glorify excess?

Another view

It ignores the deeper spiritual role Bacchus held beyond intoxication.

More from Ambrose Bierce

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  2. Barometer, n. An ingenious instrument which indicates what kind of weather we are having.

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  3. Admiration, n. Our polite recognition of another's resemblance to ourselves.

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