A great city, whose image dwells in the memory of man, is the type of some great idea. Rome represents conquest; Faith hovers over the towers of Jerusalem; and Athens embodies the pre-eminent quality of the antique world, Art.

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that great cities have a symbolic significance beyond their physical existence. Each city mentioned - Rome, Jerusalem, and Athens - is associated with a particular concept or quality. Rome represents power and conquest, Jerusalem represents faith and spirituality, and Athens represents art and creativity. The quote suggests that these cities have become iconic because they embody and symbolize these fundamental ideas or characteristics, leaving a lasting impression in the collective memory of humankind.