21.
In what language do you encourage them to bar the way with their bodies and take upon themselves the ruin of their whole tribe, and to retreat from life rather than from their post?
Shall you say: “That which is evil is not glorious; but death is glorious; therefore death is not an evil”?
What a powerful discourse!
After such words, who would hesitate to throw himself upon the serried spears of the foemen, and die in his tracks?
But take Leonidas: how bravely did he address his men!
He said: “Fellow-soldiers, let us to our breakfast, knowing that we shall sup in Hades!” The food of these men did not grow lumpy in their mouths, or stick in their throats, or slip from their fingers; eagerly did they accept the invitation to breakfast, and to supper also!
Book: Moral Letters Vol II
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the natural fear of death
Location: Chapter 82, Section 21
Content:
21.
In what language do you encourage them to bar the way with their bodies and take upon themselves the ruin of their whole tribe, and to retreat from life rather than from their post?
Shall you say: “That which is evil is not glorious; but death is glorious; therefore death is not an evil”?
What a powerful discourse!
After such words, who would hesitate to throw himself upon the serried spears of the foemen, and die in his tracks?
But take Leonidas: how bravely did he address his men!
He said: “Fellow-soldiers, let us to our breakfast, knowing that we shall sup in Hades!” The food of these men did not grow lumpy in their mouths, or stick in their throats, or slip from their fingers; eagerly did they accept the invitation to breakfast, and to supper also!