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DUEL, n. A formal ceremony preliminary to reconciliation…

“DUEL, n. A formal ceremony preliminary to reconciliation of two enemies. Great skill is necessary to its satisfactory observance; if awkwardly performed . . . deplorable consequences sometimes ensue. A long time ago a man lost his life.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“DUEL, n. A formal ceremony preliminary to reconciliation of two enemies. Great skill is necessary to its satisfactory observance; if awkwardly performed . . . deplorable consequences sometimes ensue. A long time ago a man lost his life.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A duel is a formal, risky ritual requiring skill; mishandling leads to disaster.

In simple terms: Duel is a dangerous, skillful ritual.

Key Takeaway

Approach conflicts with caution and competence.

Themes

conflict ritual skill danger

Mood

cautionary historical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • legal disputes
  • personal confrontations
  • historical reenactments

Key Concepts

social customs risk management

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do rituals become harmful?
  • How to balance tradition with safety?
A Different Perspective

Modern societies rarely practice formal duels, limiting relevance.

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