Do you know what Agelisas said, when he was asked why the…
“Do you know what Agelisas said, when he was asked why the great city of Lacedomonie was not girded with walls? Because, pointing out the inhabitants and citizens of the city, so expert in military discipline and so strong and well armed: "Here," he said, "are the walls of the city," meaning that there is no wall but of bones, and that towns and cities can have no more secure nor stronger wall than the virtue of their citizens and inhabitants.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A strong, virtuous citizenry is the true defense of a city, more reliable than physical walls.
In simple terms: Citizens are the best walls.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate civic virtue for security.
Themes
civic virtue
defense
community
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- national security
- community building
Key Concepts
social cohesion
collective responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster citizen virtue?
- What modern walls replace physical fortifications?
A Different Perspective
Physical defenses can fail without moral strength.