Excuse Quote by Cardinal Richelieu
“Give me six lines written by the most honorable of men, and I will find an excuse in them to hang him.”
About This Quote
Source Historical Record: Memoirs, 1630s
He claims that even a noble’s six lines can be twisted into a justification for execution.
In simple terms: Even noble words can be used to condemn.
Key Takeaway
Beware of how language can be weaponized.
Themes
politics
justice
power
language
manipulation
Mood
cautionary
critical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- court trials
- political purges
- propaganda
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
rhetorical abuse
legal justification
authoritarian tactics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies guard against misuse of rhetoric?
- What safeguards protect the innocent?
A Different Perspective
Such manipulation can erode trust in justice.
