Agamemnon Quote by Euripides
““AGAMEMNON: I will not slay my children, nor shall thy interests be prospered by justice in thy vengeance for a worthless wife, while I am left wasting, night and day, in sorrow for what I did to one of my own flesh and blood, contrary to all law and justice.””
About This Quote
Source Play: The Trojan Women, 415 BC
The character refuses to sacrifice his child and condemns vengeance that serves selfish interests, highlighting the moral conflict between personal loss and societal justice.
In simple terms: He opposes killing his child for revenge and questions unjust justice.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize compassion over vengeance.
Themes
justice
family
revenge
morality
war
Mood
tragic
defiant
thought‑provoking
Type
dramatic
ethical
When to use this quote
- family conflict
- war crimes
- legal reform
- personal loss
- political activism
Key Concepts
ethics
political philosophy
tragic drama
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the limits of personal sacrifice for justice?
- How can societies balance retribution and compassion?
A Different Perspective
The argument may ignore the necessity of law enforcement in some contexts.
