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The task of history is to hold out for reprobation every…

“The task of history is to hold out for reprobation every evil word and deed, and to hold out for praise every great and noble word and deed.” quote by Tacitus
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“The task of history is to hold out for reprobation every evil word and deed, and to hold out for praise every great and noble word and deed.”

Tacitus

About This Quote

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

History should condemn evil deeds and praise noble ones, maintaining moral balance.

In simple terms: History judges both evil and good.

Key Takeaway

Uphold moral standards in evaluating events.

Themes

morality history justice

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical historical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • public policy
  • media reporting
  • legal judgments

Key Concepts

ethics historical analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we discern noble actions in history?
  • What criteria should guide praise or condemnation?
A Different Perspective

Complex events may blur clear moral judgments.

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