Craftsmanship Quote by Edward Gibbon
““These overtures of peace, translated into the servile and flattering language of Asia, were transmitted to the camp of the Great King; who resolved to signify, by an ambassador, the terms which he was inclined to grant to the suppliant Romans.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, 1776
Diplomacy is portrayed as a submissive, flattering overture to the powerful, reflecting imperial power dynamics.
In simple terms: Flattering diplomatic language masks power imbalance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question submissive diplomatic rhetoric.
Themes
power
diplomacy
imperialism
language
politics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- colonial encounters
- modern diplomatic talks
Key Concepts
hegemony
soft power
subservience
Questions to Reflect On
- How does flattering language affect power relations?
- When does diplomacy become coercive?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overstate the agency of the “suppliant” side.
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