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Fear of death Quote by Samuel Johnson

“Give with thy trumpet a loud note to Troy,Thou dreadful Ajax; that th’ appalled airMay pierce the head of thy great combatant.Shakesp. The house of peers was somewhat appalled at this alarum; but took time to consider of it till next day.Clarendon. Does neither rage inflame, nor fear appal,Nor the…” quote by Samuel Johnson
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““Give with thy trumpet a loud note to Troy,Thou dreadful Ajax; that th’ appalled airMay pierce the head of thy great combatant.Shakesp. The house of peers was somewhat appalled at this alarum; but took time to consider of it till next day.Clarendon. Does neither rage inflame, nor fear appal,Nor the black fear of death that saddens all.Pope.””

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Idler” by Samuel Johnson, 1759

Excessive anger and fear can paralyze; true courage lies beyond these extremes.

In simple terms: Avoid letting anger or fear dominate.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate calm beyond rage and fear.

Themes

courage fear anger balance death

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • public speaking
  • personal crises
  • leadership decisions

Key Concepts

stoicism emotional regulation existential awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What situations trigger your anger or fear?
  • How can you maintain composure when confronting death?
A Different Perspective

Fear of death may still influence actions despite calm.

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