He asked, 'Croesus, who told you to attack my land and…
““He asked, 'Croesus, who told you to attack my land and meet me as an enemy instead of a friend?' The King replied, 'It was caused by your good fate and my bad fate. It was the fault of the Greek gods, who with their arrogance, encouraged me to march onto your lands. Nobody is mad enough to choose war whilst there is peace. During times of peace, the sons bury their fathers, but in war it is the fathers who send their sons to the grave.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A king blames fate and divine arrogance for war, noting that peace hides hidden conflicts that erupt into violence.
In simple terms: War is blamed on fate and gods, even in peace.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden tensions before they erupt.
Themes
war
fate
divine influence
peace
conflict
Mood
reflective
serious
historical
Type
philosophical
political
historical narrative
When to use this quote
- diplomacy
- military strategy
- political negotiations
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
determinism
political philosophy
mythology
Questions to Reflect On
- What role does belief in fate play in decision‑making?
- Can acknowledging hidden tensions prevent war?
A Different Perspective
Attributing war to fate can excuse responsibility.