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About this quote

What does it mean?
Elizabeth I reflects on how enemies will criticize her for executing a relative to protect her reign.
In plain terms
Critics will claim I sacrificed family for self-preservation.
What can you take from it?
Survival in power may invite moral condemnation.

Where it applies

  • political rivalry
  • dynastic conflict
  • public scrutiny

Putting it to work

  • anticipate attacks
  • justify hard choices
  • manage legacy

Questions to consider

  • When is safety worth betraying kin?
  • How do you respond to accusations of self-interest?

Another view

It assumes the public will believe enemies over the leader's justification.

More from Elizabeth I of England

  1. There is but one Lord, Jesus Christ. One faith. All else is a dispute over trifles.

    Permalink to quote #25
  2. You are like my little dog. Whenever they see you, they know I am not far behind.

    Permalink to quote #27
  3. There is a small proportion betwixt a fool who useth not wit because he hath it not and him that useth it not when it should avail him.

    Permalink to quote #24

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