215 Quotes by Thucydides

If one has a great aim to pursue, this burden of envy must be accepted, and it is wise to accept it. -p162

Our city is open to the world, and we have no periodical deportations in order to prevent people observing or finding out secret which might be of military advantage to the enemy. This is because we rely, not on secret weapons, but on our own real courage and loyalty. -146

When one is deprived of ones liberty, one is right in blaming not so much the man who puts the shackles on as the one who had the power to prevent him, but did not use it.

In peace and prosperity states and individuals have better sentiments, because they do not find themselves suddenly confronted with imperious necessities; but war takes away the easy supply of daily wants and so proves a rough master that brings most men's characters to a level with their fortunes

And where the rewards for merit are greatest, there are found the best citizens.

We secure our friends not by accepting favors but by doing them.

It is a common mistake in going to war to begin at the wrong end, to act first, and wait for disasters to discuss the matter.

Wars spring from unseen and generally insignificant causes, the first outbreak being often but an explosion of anger.

Three of the greatest failings, want of sense, of courage, or of vigilance.