Like an armed warrior, like a plumed knight, James G. Blaine marched down the halls of the American Congress and threw his shining lance full and fair against the brazen forehead of every traitor to his country and every maligner of his fair reputation.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Ingersoll portrays James G. Blaine as a valiant defender who aggressively attacked traitors and those who damaged reputations in Congress.
- In plain terms
- Blaine fought courageously against enemies of his country and character.
- What can you take from it?
- Stand up against traitors and defenders attacks on reputation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define a traitor?
- Is aggression ever justified in defense?
Another view
The metaphor glorifies conflict rather than reconciliation or diplomacy.
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