Consecutusque cohortis ad Rubiconem flumen, qui provinciae eius finis erat, paulum constitit, ac reputans quantum moliretur, conversus ad proximos: 'Etiam nunc,' inquit, 'regredi possumus; quod si ponticulum transierimus, omnia armis agenda erunt.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A commander pauses at the Rubicon, urging his men that they can still retreat if they cross a bridge, otherwise they must fight.
- In plain terms
- He says they can retreat if they cross the bridge, but if not, they must fight.
- What can you take from it?
- Assess options before committing to battle.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is retreat a viable option?
- How do leaders communicate critical choices?
Another view
Historical context is missing, making interpretation uncertain.
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