Said Gareth Quote by T.H. White
““I incline my agreement with Toirdealbhach,' said Gareth. 'After all, what is the good of killing poor kerns who do not know anything? It would be much better for the people who are angry to fight each other themselves, knight against knight.' 'But you could not have any wars at all, like that,' exclaimed Gaheris. 'It would be absurd,' said Gawaine. 'You must have people, galore of people, in a war.' 'Otherwise you could not kill them,' explained Agravaine.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Once and Future King, 1958, dialogue among knights
War is justified when people are angry, but it also requires many participants; otherwise violence is impossible.
In simple terms: War needs many participants; otherwise it can't happen.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the human cost of conflict.
Themes
war
morality
human nature
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- military strategy
- peace negotiations
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
ethics
politics
violence
societal conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- Is conflict ever justified?
- What alternatives to war exist?
A Different Perspective
The quote rationalizes war, ignoring its devastation.
![“I said, 'I have heard people talk about war as if it was a very fine thing.' Ah!' said [Captain], 'I should think they never saw it. No doubt it is very fine when there is no enemy, when it is just exercise and parade, and sham-fight. Yes, it is very fine then; but when thousands of good brave men…” quote by Anna Sewell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5a7/anna-sewell-13394_brave-men_i-said-i-have-heard-people-talk-about-wa_3213135.jpg)
