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About this quote

What does it mean?
Treachery is noble when it opposes tyranny.
In plain terms
Acts of betrayal can be justified against oppressive rulers.
What can you take from it?
Consider moral context when judging betrayal.

Where it applies

  • revolutionary movements
  • whistleblowing

Putting it to work

  • evaluating motives
  • supporting just resistance

Questions to consider

  • When does betrayal become justified?

Another view

Treachery can also cause unnecessary harm even against tyrants.

More from Pierre Corneille

  1. Le pire des Etats, c'est l'Etat populaire.

    Permalink to quote #27
  2. Qui peut tout doit tout craindre.

    Permalink to quote #29
  3. Peu de genereux vont jusqu'a dedaigner, Apres un sceptre acquis, la douceur de regner.

    Permalink to quote #26

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