Tribune Gracchus Quote by Michael Duncan
““As the historian Appian records: “So perished on the Capitol, and while still tribune, Gracchus, the son of that Gracchus who was twice consul, and of Cornelia, daughter of that Scipio who robbed Carthage of her supremacy. He lost his life in consequence of a most excellent design too violently pursued; and this abominable crime, the first that was perpetrated in the public assembly, was seldom without parallels thereafter from time to time.””
About This Quote
Source Historical Text: Appian's Roman History, 2nd century AD
A political figure's violent death illustrates how ambitious designs can lead to tragic outcomes.
In simple terms: Ambition can cause ruin.
Key Takeaway
Beware reckless ambition.
Themes
politics
power
violence
history
Mood
cautionary
analytical
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- leadership decisions
- policy debates
Key Concepts
Roman Republic
political intrigue
moral consequences
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives leaders to extreme actions?
- Can ambition be balanced with ethics?
A Different Perspective
Complex motives may be oversimplified.
