Quote by George Orwell
To a surprising extent the war-lords in shining armor, the apostles of the martial virtues, tend not to die fighting when the time comes. History is full of ignominious getaways by the great and famous.
Summary
This quote highlights the ironic tendency of warriors and war-leaders, who glorify the virtues of combat and heroism, often avoiding death and defeat when confronted with real danger. It suggests that many renowned figures throughout history have managed to escape ignominiously from battle, betraying their own notions of bravery and valor. The quote implies that these individuals may prioritize their own survival over the ideals they champion, shedding light on the discrepancy between the romanticized image of war and its harsh realities.