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Ambition Quote by John Milton

“Here we may reign secure; and in my choice To reign is worth ambition, though in hell: Better to reign in hell than serve in heaven.” quote by John Milton
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“Here we may reign secure; and in my choice To reign is worth ambition, though in hell: Better to reign in hell than serve in heaven.”

John Milton

About This Quote

Source Poem: Paradise Lost, Book I, 1667

The speaker prefers power even in suffering over subservience in bliss, highlighting the value of autonomy over comfort.

In simple terms: Power in suffering beats servitude in bliss.

Key Takeaway

Choose autonomy over comfort.

Themes

power ambition freedom suffering servitude

Mood

defiant reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • personal relationships
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

existentialism ethical choice self-determination

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is autonomy always preferable to comfort?
  • What are the costs of choosing power over peace?
A Different Perspective

The pursuit of power can cause moral corruption.

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