Men ought either to be indulged or utterly destroyed, for if you merely offend them they take vengeance, but if you injure them greatly they are unable to retaliate, so that the injury done to a man ought to be such that vengeance cannot be feared.

Meaning

With this quote, the focus is on courage, emphasizing that courage appears in moments of uncertainty while underlining that fear is natural but not decisive.

Theme

Across cultures, courage remains a recurring subject. Many reflect on it since courage inspires others. This quote fits that tradition, highlighting that bravery opens new paths.

About the Author

Niccolo Machiavelli is frequently cited for statements exploring universal ideas. This quote reflects themes related to courage.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What is the message?
courage appears in moments of uncertainty.

Why is it shared?
It captures a universal truth about courage.

What can we learn?
we step outside our comfort zone is an important part of daily life.