Quote by Victor Hugo
This light of history is pitiless; it has a strange and divine quality that, luminous as it is, and precisely because it is luminous, often casts a shadow just where we saw a radiance; out of the same man it makes two different phantoms, and the one attacks and punishes the other, the darkness of the despot struggles with the splendor of the captain. Hence a truer measure in the final judgment of the nations. Babylon violated diminishes Alexander; Rome enslaved diminishes Caesar; massacred Jerusalem diminishes Titus. Tyranny follows the tyrant. Woe to the man who leaves behind a shadow that bears his form.
Summary
This quote reflects on the impartiality of history and its ability to illuminate both the accomplishments and atrocities committed by individuals. The "light of history" is described as pitiless, as it exposes the dual nature of people and casts shadows where there were once moments of brilliance. It points out that the same person can be seen in two different ways, where one aspect condemns and punishes the other. The quote also alludes to the downfall and diminished legacy of rulers like Alexander the Great, Caesar, and Titus who perpetuated violence and oppression. It serves as a warning to those who leave behind a dark legacy that tarnishes their image.
By Victor Hugo
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