One to destroy, is murder by the law; And gibbets keep the lifted hand in awe; To murder thousands takes a specious name, War's glorious art, and gives immortal fame.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Society condemns individual murder but glorifies war killing.
- In plain terms
- War is murder celebrated as glory.
- What can you take from it?
- Question the morality of war.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is war ever moral?
- Why glorify violence?
Another view
It ignores defensive war nuances.
More from Edward Young
Think naught a trifle, though it small appear; Small sands the mountain, moments make the year, And trifles life.
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Permalink to quote #23 For her own breakfast she'll project a scheme, Nor take her tea without a strategem.
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