Tacitus Quote by Tacitus
““Think of it. Fifteen whole years-no small part of a mans life.-taken from us-all the most energetic have fallen to the cruelty of the emperor. And the few that survive are no longer what we once were. Yet I find some small satisfaction in acknowledging the bondage we once suffered. Tacitus, The Agricola””
About This Quote
Source Book: Agricola by Tacitus, 98 AD
Reflects on how long service under a harsh ruler erodes vitality, leaving survivors changed and resigned, yet finding a grim satisfaction in recognizing past oppression.
In simple terms: Long service under tyranny changes people, but they can still note past oppression.
Acknowledge past hardships while moving forward.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military service
- political oppression
- personal transformation
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does prolonged oppression reshape identity?
- Can we find value in remembering past hardships?
It may romanticize suffering and ignore the need for systemic change.