Action Quote by Tacitus
“This I regard as history's highest function, to let no worthy action be uncommemorated, and to hold out the reprobation of posterity as a terror to evil words and deeds.”
About This Quote
Source Historical Text: Annals, Book 15, 1st century AD
The purpose of history is to record noble deeds and use future judgment to deter wrongdoing.
In simple terms: History records good deeds and warns future generations.
Key Takeaway
Preserve good actions, fear future condemnation of evil.
Themes
history
morality
legacy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education
- political speeches
- memorials
- legal judgments
Key Concepts
record-keeping
social control
reputation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure accurate remembrance?
- What role does collective memory play in morality?
A Different Perspective
Future societies may reinterpret events, reducing the intended deterrent effect.
![“Posterity gives to every man his true honor. [Lat., Suum cuique decus posteritas rependet.]” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fa6/tacitus-1552_every-man_posterity-gives-to-every-man-his-true-ho_403422.jpg)
![“None mourn more ostentatiously than those who most rejoice at it [a death].” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/36d/tacitus-1552_death_none-mourn-more-ostentatiously-than-thos_13591.jpg)
![“None mourn more ostentatiously over the death of Germanicus than those who most rejoice at it [a death].” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/192/tacitus-1552_death_none-mourn-more-ostentatiously-over-the_123648.jpg)
