Our civilization, bequeathed to us by fierce adventurers, eaters of meat and hunters, is so full of hurry and combat, so busy about many things which perhaps are of no importance, that it cannot but see something feeble in a civilization which smiles as it refuses to make the battlefield the test of excellence.

Summary

This quote suggests that modern civilization, inherited from ancient warriors and hunters, is consumed by haste, conflict, and trivial pursuits. It criticizes the contemporary society for underestimating the valor and strength that comes from engaging in battles and using them as a measure of greatness. The quote implies that by avoiding physical combat as an indicator of excellence, present civilization has become feeble and lost touch with the values revered by its predecessors.

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