The truth was, the nation as a body was in the world for…
““The truth was, the nation as a body was in the world for one object, and one only: to grovel before king and Church and noble; to slave for them, sweat blood for them, starve that they might be fed, work that they might play, drink misery to the dregs that they might be happy, go naked that they might wear silks and jewels, pay taxes that they might be spared from paying them, be familiar all their lives with the degrading language and postures of adulation that they might walk in pride and think themselves the gods of this world. And for all this, the thanks they got were cuffs and contempt; and so poor-spirited were they that they took even this sort of attention as an honor.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society often subjugates itself to authority, seeking fleeting rewards while losing dignity.
In simple terms: People serve rulers for empty promises.
Key Takeaway
Question blind loyalty to power.
Themes
power
subservience
illusion
Mood
critical
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political activism
- education
- personal empowerment
Key Concepts
social critique
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you accept authority without question?
- What values could replace empty rewards?
A Different Perspective
Changing systems is difficult and risky.