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About this quote

What does it mean?
Heroism does not justify destructive behavior.
In plain terms
Alexander was great, but breaking chairs wasn't.
What can you take from it?
Achievement doesn't excuse harm.

Where it applies

  • praising leaders
  • critiquing actions

Putting it to work

  • evaluate actions vs status
  • critique leaders

Questions to consider

  • Can a hero be destructive?
  • What matters more: deeds or legacy?

Another view

It separates deeds from the person oddly.

More from Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol

  1. It is no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry.

    Permalink to quote #4
  2. The more destruction there is everywhere, the more it shows the activity of town authorities.

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. I shall laugh my bitter laugh.

    Permalink to quote #3

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