Skip to content

Death Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero

“When time and need require, we should resist with all our might, and prefer death to slavery and disgrace.” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
Download Open image
“When time and need require, we should resist with all our might, and prefer death to slavery and disgrace.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

About This Quote

Source Speech: Cicero's Orations, 44 BC

When faced with oppression, choosing death preserves honor more than living in disgrace.

In simple terms: Choosing death over slavery protects personal honor.

Key Takeaway

Stand firm against oppression, even at great cost.

Themes

honor freedom resistance ethics courage

Mood

somber determined serious

Type

philosophical political historical

When to use this quote

  • wartime resistance
  • human rights activism
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

moral philosophy political theory civil disobedience

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is death always the noble choice?
  • When is resistance justified?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize martyrdom without considering practical consequences.

4.2 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Marcus Tullius Cicero

Explore all 1,068 Marcus Tullius Cicero quotes

More Death quotes

Browse all 39,138 Death quotes