The greatest men of a nation are those it puts to death.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author claims that nations often destroy their greatest figures, implying societal rejection of excellence.
- In plain terms
- Nations frequently execute their most exceptional people.
- What can you take from it?
- Nations often destroy their greatest.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do societies reject their leaders?
- Who are the martyrs of your time?
Another view
It exaggerates by implying this happens universally rather than occasionally.
More from Ernest Renan
Religion is not a popular error; it is a great instinctive truth, sensed by the people, expressed by the people.
Permalink to quote #13 The liberty of the individual is a necessary postulate of human progress.
Permalink to quote #15 Man makes holy what he believes.
Permalink to quote #12
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