Honor
‹ 4 · Outline · 6 ›
5.The honor of arms and the warrior's code
5a.Death preferred to dishonor and cowardice
See also: Chivalry 3d · Courage 8a · Duty 6a · War and Peace 8c
Sophocles, AntigoneVol. 8
- p. 255Antigone prefers death to dishonour and seeks favour of the dead.read · scan
- p. 255–259Antigone says a dishonourable death is the only evil she fears.read · scan
Plato, The Apology of SocratesVol. 2
- p. 16Achilles feared living in dishonor more than death; disgrace is to be avoided above all.read · scan
The Bhagavad-Gita; or, Song CelestialVol. 45
- p. 785–786Duryodhana names his valiant chiefs, ready to die for their king.read · scan
- p. 792–793Infamy is worse than death for men of noble blood; enemies would mock his fear.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 344Turnus, stung by shame at his supposed flight, laments lost fame and infamy and wishes to hide from Fame.read · scan
- p. 350–353Mezentius scorns the killer's gift of life and dies unbowed; shame and inborn worth oppress him.read · scan
- p. 366Turnus fights for his fame and the fathers' blood; dying without a dishonest wound.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus trades life for praise, scorning the safe course.read · scan
- p. 406–412Turnus fears shame and a coward's name, choosing death in battle rather than disgrace before Latins and Drances.read · scan
Plutarch, ThemistoclesVol. 12
- p. 33Themistocles refuses to sully the glory of his past victories by fighting Greece and ends his life to preserve his reputation.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 276Soldiers' valor is inspired by Caesar's glory; shame over a lost shield and preferring death to accepting mercy.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 380Antony resolves that he cannot die more honorably than in battle and challenges Caesar to single combat.read · scan
- p. 381Antony says he fell not ignobly, a Roman overcome by a Roman, bidding her rejoice in his past happiness.read · scan
Epictetus, The Golden Sayings of EpictetusVol. 2
- p. 135Only a death of shame is terrible.read · scan
Tacitus, GermanyVol. 33
- p. 100Followers must match the prince's bravery; surviving his death in battle is lasting infamy.read · scan
- p. 110Killing a foe makes one worthy of country and parents; cowards keep the mark of shame.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 80–82Wiglaf rebukes the cowards, saying they have disgraced themselves and their lord's gifts were wasted on them.read · scan
- p. 82–84Wiglaf says death is better for liegemen than a life of shame; the cowards' fameless flight will cost them their lands.read · scan
The Destruction of Dá Derga's HostelVol. 49
- p. 247–248Amorgin holds that surviving one's slain lord is shameful unless wounds prove one's fight.read · scan
Stories from the Thousand and One NightsVol. 16
- p. 431–432The robber deems it an honour to risk his life for the troop.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 95–96Blancandrin prefers death of hostages to flight into dishonor and beggary.read · scan
- p. 106–107Ganelon's men lament his fate; he refuses to let brave knights perish with him.read · scan
- p. 109–110Ganelon vows the emperor shall not say he perished ignobly abroad.read · scan
- p. 126Roland fights lest songs of scorn be sung; he refuses a dastard's part.read · scan
- p. 127–128Roland refuses to sound the horn for help, fearing shame to his glory and his kindred and France.read · scan
- p. 129–130Roland refuses to blow his horn lest he dishonor his lineage; death is better than fame laid low.read · scan
- p. 142–143Roland and Turpin fear shameful songs sung against them and choose glory in death.read · scan
- p. 151–153Roland refuses to sound the horn as unknightly disgrace on his kindred; Olivier fears France dishonored.read · scan
- p. 169–171Roland grieves that his sword, a gallant vassal's, must not fall to a coward's possession.read · scan
- p. 171–172It would be shame for the relic-bearing sword to rest with heathens; Roland dies a conqueror.read · scan
- p. 179–180Roland's vow to die as a conqueror facing the foe, and Karl's loss of pride and glory.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 263Volsung will not be mocked by maidens or have it told he fled or prayed for peace.read · scan
- p. 321–322Brynhild scorns Gunnar as no king or champion for cowardice, and holds Sigurd the noblest man; shame and worth are her measure.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 38–39Prince will treat only if his honour and his people's are saved; peace called more honourable.read · scan
- p. 46Some knights would rather die than incur reproach, refusing to flee when their masters left the field.read · scan
- p. 47Douglas will not be taken by the English and would rather be slain, leaving when the rout is plain.read · scan
- p. 48English knight shames Oudart for flying: it is a shame to fly away.read · scan
- p. 73Sale refuses to forsake his natural lord, calling it dishonour, and prefers death to joining the rebels.read · scan
- p. 94Knights refuse counsel for honour's sake, fearing blame whether they return or go on.read · scan
- p. 94Lindsay pursues to win honour and calls flight a shame; ransom promises rest on knightly faith.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 101–102Duke Alessandro praises Cecchino as a man of worth and courage; Cecchino boasts of his loyal service.read · scan
Ambroise Paré, Journeys in Diverse PlacesVol. 38
- p. 26Soldiers die joyfully on the 'bed of honour'; young nobility eagerly enroll for sallies.read · scan
Sir Francis Drake, Sir Francis Drake RevivedVol. 33
- p. 140He counts it more honourable to jeopard his life than leave so high an enterprise unperformed.read · scan
- p. 164John Drake will not have it said he showed cowardice to his brother.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 187Quixote makes Sancho promise never to say he withdrew from fear, guarding his reputation.read · scan
- p. 244–246He would die ashamed for lacking heart to avenge the robbery of his beloved.read · scan
- p. 378The soldier is borne onward on the wings of honour.read · scan
- p. 387Generals die of grief over loss of the place; the noble Pagan de Oria is slain.read · scan
Edward Haies, Sir Humphrey Gilbert's Voyage to NewfoundlandVol. 33
- p. 290Brown chooses death rather than incur infamy by being first to leave his charge.read · scan
- p. 294–295He refuses to leave his company, and reports that he fears the sea drive him to rashness.read · scan
Michael Drayton, Agincourt; To the Virginian Voyage; Love's FarewellVol. 40
- p. 222–225Battles bravely won are raised to the sun by fame; Henry seeks victory or death rather than lost esteem.read · scan
Christopher Marlowe, Edward the SecondVol. 46
- p. 62–63Edward would rather die with fame in the bed of honour than flee.read · scan
Philip Massinger, A New Way to Pay Old DebtsVol. 47
- p. 867–868Allworth's master lacks no scruple in the full weight of honour; soldiering teaches principles tending to honour.read · scan
Pedro Calderón de la Barca, Life Is a DreamVol. 26
- p. 7Rosaura prefers death on Poland's threshold to living unrevenged in Muscovy, driven by wounded honor.read · scan
Richard Lovelace, To Lucasta, on Going to the Wars; To Althea from Prison; To Lucasta, Going Beyond the SeasVol. 40
- p. 354–356The soldier leaves his love for war, for he could not love her so much loved he not honour more.read · scan
John Dryden, All for Love; or, The World Well LostVol. 18
- p. 29Ventidius urges Antony to rise for honour's sake, rather than slothfully die like Tully.read · scan
- p. 29Antony wishes Ventidius were his equal so he could kill him without a stain to honour.read · scan
- p. 29Antony loves Cleopatra beyond all but honour; Ventidius rouses him to soldierly glory and reputation.read · scan
- p. 39–42Antony is hard pressed between interest and honour.read · scan
- p. 43Ventidius appeals to honour and manhood; Antony says a lady's favours may be worn with honour.read · scan
- p. 46Ventidius weighs Antony's fortune, honour and fame against her; Antony says love outweighs them all.read · scan
- p. 57Antony rejects being excused to Caesar, claiming equality and scorning Caesar's honour as divided from his interest.read · scan
- p. 57–61Antony refuses to beg forgiveness of Caesar, whom he sees as merely an equal.read · scan
- p. 84Antony says honour stops his ears to Cleopatra's pleas.read · scan
- p. 90–93Antony and Ventidius seek a noble Roman death; Ventidius glories at being known as he who died with Antony.read · scan
- p. 94He would die as a Roman ought, escaping Caesar's reach and bondage.read · scan
- p. 103Antony crowned with laurel as hero who did not fall basely; she meets Caesar's triumph by dying royally.read · scan
- p. 103–105Charmion says dying is done like a queen, last of her great race, better than a holiday in Rome.read · scan
John Locke, Some Thoughts Concerning EducationVol. 37
- p. 54When dissoluteness eats out the sense of true honour, bravery seldom stays long.read · scan
Robert Burns, Poems and SongsVol. 6
- p. 421–423Kenmure's men are praised as brave and true, resolved to live or die with fame.read · scan
Thomas Campbell, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 780–781Brave men rush to glory or the grave; the fallen are praised as the brave.read · scan
George Gordon, Lord Byron, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 810–812Martyrdom conquers for country and gives freedom's fame wings, while the warrior prefers kingly death to shame.read · scan
- p. 814–816He urges himself to seek a soldier's honourable death in the field, glory around him, rather than regret youth.read · scan
Thomas Babington Macaulay, MachiavelliVol. 27
- p. 375A standing soldier regards betrayal or remissness as degrading crimes and pay as national gratitude.read · scan
- p. 375–376Courage was the point of honor in northern countries, ingenuity the point of honor in Italy.read · scan
Ralph Waldo Emerson, English TraitsVol. 5
- p. 348Rodney surmounted fear only by considerations of honor and public duty.read · scan
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1008–1009Grenville prizes great glory won; prefers to die rather than yield to Spainread · scan
John Ruskin, Sesame and LiliesVol. 28
- p. 114–116Nation still gives life for honor, love and business, though foolish, selfish and base.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 326The army felt its own honor as men and as an army was at stake alongside the country's safety.read · scan
- p. 378Holding the crest depends on the honor of the Army of the Potomac.read · scan
5b.Boasting, vows and the defense of one's name in combat
See also: War and Peace 8c · Chivalry 3c · Courage 8a
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 104–105Odysseus boasts of his prowess in sports and archery, ranking himself above living men but not the heroes of old.read · scan
- p. 127–128Odysseus proudly reveals his name so the deed will be credited to him, against his crew's prudent warnings.read · scan
Aeschylus, Prometheus BoundVol. 8
- p. 200–201Hermes taunts Prometheus as proud of his doom; insult answered by insult.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 109Aeneas is spurred by a sense of honor and revenge to fight.read · scan
- p. 260Warriors and cities of renown are catalogued with pride of war and fame.read · scan
- p. 316Mnestheus warns that forsaking honor and fame shames their gods, country and king.read · scan
- p. 325Aeneas taunts Tarquitus to lie inglorious and without a tomb, denied burial.read · scan
- p. 366Desire of fame and the post of honor; Turnus resents the brand of coward blotting his name.read · scan
- p. 381–383Aruns seeks to wash away dishonor by slaying her, claiming no spoils.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus, scorned by the public and his honor questioned, demands single combat to redeem his reputation.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 15Beowulf cites fame gained in youth as grounds for his request.read · scan
- p. 20He answers Unferth's taunt with a boast of deeds and shames his cowardice.read · scan
- p. 20–23Hrothgar bids Beowulf remember his glory and declare his might.read · scan
- p. 24–26Glory goes to Beowulf, who made good his vaunt and pleased in his deed and its honor.read · scan
The Destruction of Dá Derga's HostelVol. 49
- p. 210–212Reavers seek to 'save our honors' by exacting a destruction in return for the one Ingcel gave them.read · scan
- p. 218–219Ingcel refuses to abandon the Destruction lest he be reproached by historians; the others swear to see it through.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 101–102Roland calls for avenging slain barons Basan and Basil.read · scan
- p. 117–119Roland answers Ganelon's nomination for the rear-guard with knightly pride and scorn, taking the bow and guarding his good name.read · scan
- p. 119–121Roland vows never to belie his race; vassals pledge themselves to him.read · scan
- p. 123–124Boasts of glory and vows to shame Karl and rob France of her bravest.read · scan
- p. 132–133Both sides claim France's fame or shame is at stake; Roland vows France shall not forgo her fame.read · scan
- p. 133–135Franks are urged to remember their chivalry; comrades praise each blow as a baron's or cavalier's.read · scan
- p. 140–142Turpin invokes the Frankish geste that the Emperor's vassals bear themselves best; Margaris's flight brings no disgrace.read · scan
- p. 153–154Turpin appeals to Roland and Olivier to cease strife, and Ganelon disparages Roland's pride.read · scan
- p. 158–159Roland exhorts the Franks not to bring shame on France and hopes the Emperor will find the enemy slain.read · scan
- p. 165–166Roland scorns the base and proud and the dastard; Turpin calls base whoever spares to smite.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 274–275Sinfjotli boasts that Helgi delights in fighting for fame while taunting Granmar; each slanders the other's reputation and manhood.read · scan
- p. 275–276Helgi rebukes the shameful exchange of insults as unmanly; Sigrun promises him honour and renown for felling Hodbrod.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 11The French king swears the English shall not return unfought, damages dearly revenged.read · scan
- p. 24The king asks God to let him achieve the journey to his honour and urges every man to look to his right and honour.read · scan
- p. 40Chandos and Clermont quarrel chivalrously over a shared device, promising to prove it by arms.read · scan
- p. 42Prince expects the victors to be most honoured of all the world; Audley's vow to be first setter-on.read · scan
- p. 82Douglas wins Percy's pennon in single combat and vows to display it at Dalkeith; Percy vows to retrieve it.read · scan
- p. 83Douglas overrules the council to stay and assail Otterburn for double honour, taunting Percy to come reclaim his pennon.read · scan
- p. 84–85Percy is stung that his pennon was lost and his public word at stake.read · scan
- p. 85Percy swears to seek his pennon and dislodge the Scots that night.read · scan
- p. 91–92Waltham vows to be reputed best doer on both sides or die.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 87–89Douglas and Piercy stake their honor on single combat and a pledge to meet at Otterburn in three days, or be called false or coward.read · scan
- p. 89–91Each lord vows to wait three days lest he be called a coward; Douglas asks his death be hidden and his name still shouted.read · scan
- p. 91–93Dying Douglas wants his name still shouted and his death concealed; Piercy will yield only to a worthy lord, not a knave.read · scan
- p. 94–96Douglas will not be outbraved; Percy refuses to declare himself; Witherington would not bring shame on the king.read · scan
- p. 96–98Percy scorns Douglas's offer of ransom and advancement, refusing to yield to any Scot.read · scan
- p. 120–122Braikley says he is no coward; Inverey taunts that his honour is gone. Grahame and Bewick boast of their sons' prowess.read · scan
- p. 122–123Grahame is stung by being called bad and a lad, and demands his son prove himself.read · scan
- p. 142–144The knight denies being a false knight, claims jousting prowess, and chides the abbot for discourtesy in letting him kneel.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 45–46Hearing an insult to Florentines, Cellini takes it upon himself and strikes the soldier, and bystanders judge him in the right.read · scan
- p. 65He leaves the fight with honour, and the noble protector admires his fighting aptitude.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 29He kneels before the host, promising the boon will redound to his renown and the profit of mankind.read · scan
- p. 32He guards his arms as a point of knightly honor, threatening death for touching them.read · scan
- p. 32He will not leave the cistern lest he seem to abandon his arms; calls opponents disloyal and treacherous.read · scan
- p. 41Quixote counts his beating a fitting disgrace of knights-errant and blames his horse.read · scan
- p. 71Quixote demands the vanquished present himself to his lady, a knightly token of glory.read · scan
- p. 111Quixote takes the beating as punishment for breaking knighthood's laws by drawing sword against non-knights.read · scan
- p. 111–114Quixote argues blows from chance instruments do not disgrace a man, per the laws of single combat.read · scan
- p. 114–115Quixote insists being beaten with pack-staves is no disgrace and riding an ass is not dishonourable.read · scan
- p. 115–116Don Quixote claims wounds received in battle bring honour rather than take it away, consoling himself after his beating.read · scan
- p. 283Don Quixote swears to endure any hardship and to slay her enemy in her service.read · scan
- p. 296–297Quixote boasts of his domineering countenance and vows to seek the master out even in a whale's belly.read · scan
- p. 441Quixote challenges anyone denying his enchantment to combat, defending his knightly reputation.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of DenmarkVol. 46
- p. 95–97Fortinbras's emulate pride prompted the challenge; Hamlet was esteemed throughout the known world.read · scan
- p. 174Rightly to be great is to find quarrel in a straw when honour is at stake.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of King LearVol. 46
- p. 304–306Edgar, disguised, offers a champion to prove the letter's charge by trial of combat.read · scan
- p. 306–310Trial by combat: Edgar invokes the privilege of his honours, oath and knighthood; Edmund maintains his truth and honour.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The TempestVol. 46
- p. 436Quarrel over the lie and Stephano's threat of punishment for mutiny.read · scan
Ben Jonson, The AlchemistVol. 47
- p. 638–640Kastril's absurd quarrelling to prove valour and 'humour' mocks the gallant's code of honor.read · scan
John Webster, The Duchess of MalfiVol. 47
- p. 758–759Ferdinand says deputy fighting deprives a prince of honour.read · scan
Sir Walter Scott, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 751–752Claverhouse calls every Cavalier who loves honour to follow his bonnet.read · scan
Edgar Allan Poe, The Poetic PrincipleVol. 28
- p. 392Fame and Honor called as death's couriers summon the gallants to the field.read · scan
5c.Glory and spoils won in war
See also: War and Peace 4b
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 156–157Odysseus says Achilles was honored like a god; Achilles frets over his father's lost honor.read · scan
- p. 158–159The dispute over the prize of Achilles' arms caused Ajax's death; Odysseus regrets winning it.read · scan
- p. 302–303Agelaus urges the throw so they may win renown by striking Odysseus.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 131–137Aeneas hangs the vanquished Greek's shield in a temple with a verse recording his victory.read · scan
- p. 178Aeneas honors Acestes with gifts and a laurel crown; Eurytion does not envy him.read · scan
- p. 287Victory is celebrated with praise and monumental crowns; Aeneas bears aloft his race's fame.read · scan
- p. 300Rewards of spoils, slaves and lands offered for the deed; merit of bearing a brave son.read · scan
Plutarch, PericlesVol. 12
- p. 64–65Pericles takes glory in the swift conquest of Samos, compared with Agamemnon's ten years at Troy.read · scan
Plutarch, AristidesVol. 12
- p. 98Dispute over the honor of victory nearly causes civil war until it is given to the Plataeans, and Aristides conciliates.read · scan
Plutarch, CoriolanusVol. 12
- p. 148Oaken garland awarded by custom to one who saved a citizen's life.read · scan
- p. 152–154He reproaches soldiers who pillage for booty as dishonorable while comrades risk their lives.read · scan
- p. 155Marcius refuses material rewards as mercenary, seeking honor alone; his disdain for gain wins greater admiration than his valor.read · scan
- p. 156The name Coriolanus is bestowed as a reward that cannot be refused; surnames commemorate deeds and qualities.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 276Caesar's glory as commander is judged greater than that of Pompey, Marius, Sylla and others.read · scan
- p. 277Caesar inspires his soldiers' love of distinction by distributing money and honors as public rewards for valor.read · scan
- p. 287The danger at Alesia won Caesar great honor.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 382Caesar wants Cleopatra alive to add glory to his triumph, and justifies his conduct toward Antony.read · scan
Pliny the Younger, Letters of PlinyVol. 9
- p. 414–415Victors' triumphal entry and rewards for athletic glory.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 31–32Gifts of banner, helmet, breastplate, sword and steeds are given to Beowulf as guerdon of triumph, honoring him.read · scan
- p. 61Beowulf's fight brings fame and gold rewards from Hrothgar.read · scan
- p. 73He will win the wealth or die; fights in front, for glory of his lord's gifts.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 272–273Helgi grows in fame by slaying the mighty king Hunding and his sons, foretold by the Norns as most renowned of kings.read · scan
- p. 314–315Sigurd and the brothers win fame and wealth by deeds of prowess in war.read · scan
- p. 352–353Gudrun contrasts Sigurd's glory in battle with Atli's poorer lot; Atli asks for a noble burial.read · scan
Dante Alighieri, ParadiseVol. 20
- p. 285Laurel wreath for Caesar or bard, more rarely won, brings joy to the god.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 27–28Edward is displeased that his rascals killed nobles who might have been taken prisoner for ransom.read · scan
- p. 29Edward refuses aid so that his son may win his spurs and have the honour of the day.read · scan
- p. 31–32King Edward praises his son as worthy to keep a realm, and the prince honours his father.read · scan
- p. 51Captors strive over who took the king, each claiming credit and ransom.read · scan
- p. 57Audley explains he was bound to reward his squires; the prince approves and restores the gift doubled.read · scan
- p. 58Prince received with great honor at Bordeaux; Gascon squires quarrel over the right to have captured the French king.read · scan
- p. 58Returning knights and squires are praised more than others.read · scan
- p. 73Sale's reputation for valor, won knighthood, makes him prized by the rebels.read · scan
- p. 86–87Douglas seeks praise and grace; the Hepburns' defense earns lasting recommendation to their heirs.read · scan
- p. 88–89Moray praises Maxwell for having won his spurs by capturing Percy.read · scan
- p. 90The fighting chaplain earns praise and an archdeaconry; Douglas asks to be avenged.read · scan
- p. 100The Otterburn journey was more profitable and honourable than any since Stirling.read · scan
Sir Thomas Malory, The Holy GrailVol. 35
- p. 106–108Launcelot is named best knight of the world yet declines the sword, sensing it is not his.read · scan
- p. 109–110Galahad draws the sword and supplants Launcelot as best knight; Launcelot humbly admits he never was the best.read · scan
Sir Thomas More, UtopiaVol. 36
- p. 215They triumph and glory in victory won by wit and deceit, setting up pillars.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 60Quixote invokes Diego Peres of Vargas, who won a surname and lasting fame through valor with an oak branch.read · scan
- p. 380Quixote laments that gunpowder may rob him of fame and renown won by arm and sword; greater dangers bring greater esteem.read · scan
- p. 391–392Fame on earth and glory in heaven are the reward of the valiant dead.read · scan
Captain Walter Bigges, Drake's Great ArmadaVol. 33
- p. 248Officers resolve to return home holding the honour already gained rather than risk it on further uncertain enterprise.read · scan
- p. 258–259Return in safety said to bring glory to God and honour to prince and country.read · scan
Sir Walter Raleigh, The Discovery of GuianaVol. 33
- p. 329–330Conquerors Pizarro and Cortes attained great honour and riches.read · scan
- p. 375Commanders who shoot at honour will find glory eclipsing the Spanish conquests.read · scan
Edmund Spenser, PoemsVol. 40
- p. 232–233Praises the noble Earl, flower of chivalry, whose victories fill England with fame and bring Elizabeth's name glory.read · scan
Francis Bacon, Essays, Civil and MoralVol. 3
- p. 79–80Trophies, crowns and triumphs gave glory to generals and soldiers; such honor suits monarchs only in their own persons.read · scan
Michael Drayton, Agincourt; To the Virginian Voyage; Love's FarewellVol. 40
- p. 225–228Fame carried to England; poet asks when English will again fill a pen with such acts, and urges heroes pursuing honour.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of MacbethVol. 46
- p. 321–322Duncan says the wounded captain's words smack of honour as well as wounds.read · scan
John Milton, Poems Written During the Civil War and the Protectorate, 1642-1658Vol. 4
- p. 81–82Generals' names ring through Europe in praise or envy.read · scan
John Milton, Paradise LostVol. 4
- p. 204Deeds of eternal fame are done in the battleread · scan
John Milton, Samson AgonistesVol. 4
- p. 415Harapha laments losing the glory of defeating famed Samson; Samson answers that the Philistine lords are dishonorable.read · scan
William Cartwright, On the Queen's Return from the Low CountriesVol. 40
- p. 358Victories are twisted into a wreath of honour for the Queen.read · scan
John Dryden, Dedication of the AeneisVol. 13
- p. 17–19Families receive victories and prizes in the funeral games as honor; Augustus prized the poem that celebrated his divine origin.read · scan
William Collins, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 475–477Honour and Freedom come to bless the graves of the brave who died for their country.read · scan
Adam Smith, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of NationsVol. 10
- p. 111Young volunteers enlist for romantic hopes of honour and distinction that seldom occur; the general is admired above the admiral.read · scan
John Dunlop, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 581Toasts the fame of the fallen soldier and sailor, whose renown outlives their spirits.read · scan
Robert Burns, Poems and SongsVol. 6
- p. 87–89Wallace's name stirs Scottish blood; fearless fathers fought beside him and died gloriously.read · scan
- p. 173–175Heroes and patriot names of Scottish story celebrated for glory and noble virtue.read · scan
- p. 289–290Heroes deserve the proudest wreath; their names undying.read · scan
- p. 360–362Hero's laurels and well-earned praise compared to lover's prized ribbon.read · scan
- p. 457–459Glory is the soldier's prize; his wealth is honor and he deserves respect.read · scan
- p. 478–480Honour is gone with the men fallen in war.read · scan
Carolina Oliphant, Lady Nairne, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 565–566Devotion to the prince's name warms the heart's blood; fighting for a cause.read · scan
James Hogg, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 768–769The victors' cry of 'Elliot for aye' celebrates martial glory.read · scan
Sir Walter Scott, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 744–747Clansmen are called to fight for Scottish glory and famous crests.read · scan
Thomas Campbell, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 776–778The deck was their fathers' field of fame; manly hearts to glow like Blake and Nelson.read · scan
Thomas Babington Macaulay, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 915Celebrates England's famous deeds and the pride of her banner.read · scan
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1005–1007The brigade's glory shall not fade; 'Honor the charge they made'read · scan
- p. 1021–1022Maud's song of battle and Honour that cannot die shames him for a sordid, mean age and his own baseness.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 330–331Iron Brigade's conduct is praised on all hands.read · scan
- p. 341–344Reflects that surviving on the victorious side of such a battle would be glorious.read · scan
- p. 405–407Wounded Hancock stays to see the result; the wounded cheer Haskell's story of the storming of the wall.read · scan
William Ernest Henley, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1209–1211Devotion and pride in England's glory, might and mighty men.read · scan
5d.Chivalrous courtesy, mercy and honor toward foes
See also: Chivalry 5b
Buddhist WritingsVol. 45
- p. 717–718Alara Kalama honors the Buddha as his equal, but he departs unmoved.read · scan
- p. 718–719Uddaka makes the Buddha his teacher and honors him greatly.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 117Aeneas admits slaying a woman brings small honor but would earn applause for just vengeance.read · scan
- p. 344Mezentius disdains striking a fleeing man and faces Orodes to give victory better grace.read · scan
- p. 344–350Aeneas returns Lausus's arms and body, praising his worth; Mezentius laments his guilt defamed his son's name.read · scan
- p. 355Aeneas assures Evander that Pallas's wound was honorable and brought no shame.read · scan
- p. 366Camilla taunts her victim to name her as conqueror, saving his shame.read · scan
- p. 412Turnus begs for life, saying it is ignoble to strike a yielded man.read · scan
Plutarch, ThemistoclesVol. 12
- p. 29Themistocles urges Xerxes to show his virtue rather than satisfy indignation.read · scan
Plutarch, AristidesVol. 12
- p. 82Aristides yields command to Miltiades, showing it is noble and prudent, not dishonorable, to obey the wise.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 302–303Caesar pardons many prisoners, including Brutus, and is relieved to see him alive.read · scan
- p. 303Caesar grants freedom to Thessalians and Cnidians and weeps at Pompey's head, showing magnanimity.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 323Antony's eagerness for honor and brave actions; he buries his fallen foe Archelaus with royal honors.read · scan
- p. 336Antony takes the glory of victory and honors Brutus's body with his mantle and funeral.read · scan
- p. 387Caesar admires her greatness of spirit and orders royal burial for her and her women.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 53–55Beowulf praises Hrunting without slander, a generous act by a big-hearted man.read · scan
The Destruction of Dá Derga's HostelVol. 49
- p. 209–210Fair-play conventions among warriors are observed even between outlaw bands.read · scan
- p. 226Lomna says the victory of saving the three princes would be better than that of slaying them.read · scan
- p. 233–234Fer rogain says greater would be the triumph of protecting the swineherds than of slaying them.read · scan
- p. 245–246The king's head praises Mac cecht as a good warrior who gives a drink and saves a king.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 144–145Roland praises Olivier's prowess and the laud he has won, and Karl's love for it.read · scan
- p. 148–149Roland praises Turpin as the braver knight on earth, worthy of aid.read · scan
- p. 193–194Karl embraces Thierry, wipes his face and has him clothed and honored after victory.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 276–277Sinfjotli gains fame and wealth harrying; Sigmund says no fame it is to uphold wrong against a woman.read · scan
- p. 347–348Hogni's manhood is admired by all his foes.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 14Sir Thomas Holland takes the French lords as prisoners, protecting ladies and religious women from violation.read · scan
- p. 18The king shows honour by protecting the two captured damsels and sending them safely to Corbie.read · scan
- p. 23Edward spares the countess d'Aumale's lands and rewards the guide Gobin Agace, showing courtesy and generosity.read · scan
- p. 32–33Great lords' bodies are taken up and buried in holy ground with a three-day truce for burial.read · scan
- p. 51–53The prince praises Audley's valiance, rewards him and serves the captive French king humbly, honoring prowess and rank.read · scan
- p. 55–56The prince humbly serves the captive king and awards him the prize of prowess; the French admire his nobility.read · scan
- p. 99–100Douglas is buried reverently with tomb and banner; the earl of March is praised for gentle treatment of his prisoner.read · scan
Geoffrey Chaucer, The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales; The Nun's Priest's TaleVol. 40
- p. 11The knight is introduced as a worthy man who loved chivalry, truth, honour, freedom and courtesy.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 125–127Grahame's fairness in stripping his harness to match Bewick shows chivalrous honor.read · scan
- p. 146–148The sheriff praises Little John as the best archer he has seen.read · scan
Ambroise Paré, Journeys in Diverse PlacesVol. 38
- p. 51–52De Guise's kindness and generosity relieve wounded gentlemen; lords seek Paré through the King.read · scan
Sir Francis Drake, Sir Francis Drake RevivedVol. 33
- p. 141The Spanish envoy honours Drake's virtue and daring, and expects mercy from Englishmen, unlike the French.read · scan
- p. 142–143Drake's name is precious to the Cimaroons, and the Spanish envoy says he was never so honoured; he acknowledges the English courage.read · scan
- p. 169–170The Cimaroons interpret Drake's refusal as kindness and magnanimity.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 271–272Dorothea appeals to the knight's honour, fame and obligation to succour the wronged damsel.read · scan
- p. 272The knight's courtesy and reputation for bounty; he refuses to let her kiss his hand.read · scan
- p. 458Quixote vows to restore the princess to her inheritance as a knight's duty to the distressed.read · scan
Sir Walter Raleigh, The Discovery of GuianaVol. 33
- p. 315Raleigh treats Berreo according to his worth and estate, praising his valor and liberality.read · scan
- p. 345–346Just conduct makes the natives admire the Queen and honour the English nation.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of DenmarkVol. 46
- p. 204–205Laertes accepts Hamlet's apology in nature but stands aloof on his terms of honour until elder masters give precedent.read · scan
John Webster, The Duchess of MalfiVol. 47
- p. 852–853Ferdinand in delirium takes the field, giving the honour of arms to those who yield.read · scan
Pierre Corneille, PolyeucteVol. 26
- p. 117Severus follows honour's call over power and pelf, will save his rival for glory, learning from Pauline that shame is base.read · scan
Edmund Burke, Reflections on the Revolution in FranceVol. 24
- p. 212The age of chivalry with its charity of honor is gone, replaced by sophisters and calculators.read · scan
Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, Minna von Barnhelm, or The Soldier's FortuneVol. 26
- p. 299–300Just defends his master's honour as an officer against the landlord's ill treatment.read · scan
- p. 304–305Major refuses vengeance on the landlord as beneath him and honours his dead friend.read · scan
Friedrich von Schiller, Letters upon the Aesthetic Education of ManVol. 32
- p. 292–293Hatred hears the voice of honour; the conqueror spares the disarmed enemy.read · scan
James Hogg, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 766–768Elliot prizes gallant foemen and martial renown in foray.read · scan
Articles of Capitulation, YorktownVol. 43
- p. 170–171Officers keep side-arms and are allowed parole and servants, preserving the dignity of the defeated.read · scan
Alessandro Manzoni, I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed)Vol. 21
- p. 73–74Debate over chivalry and what is a knightly deed.read · scan
- p. 75–76Comic dispute on chivalry: whether beating a challenge-bearer was knightly, and whether a cudgel defiles anyone's hands.read · scan
- p. 447–448Don Ferrante is a professor of chivalry, giving decisions in affairs of honour and citing authorities on the code.read · scan
Thomas Carlyle, CharacteristicsVol. 25
- p. 325Chivalrous valour shrinks into punctilious points of honour as spontaneity is lost.read · scan
Ralph Waldo Emerson, English TraitsVol. 5
- p. 365–366Nelson's unselfish greatness and mutual support charm; a vanguard of heroes.read · scan
Robert E. Lee, Lee's Farewell to His ArmyVol. 43
- p. 423Admiration for their devotion to country.read · scan
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1010–1011Spaniards sink his body with honor; he dares Spain and dies valiantread · scan
John Ruskin, Sesame and LiliesVol. 28
- p. 140–141Knightly honor and service to one's lady characterize the noblest men of the period.read · scan
- p. 142–143Chivalry's conception of honorable life assumes the knight's subjection to his lady.read · scan
Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, Terms of Lee's Surrender at AppomattoxVol. 43
- p. 421–422Officers keep side-arms and private horses; terms are lenient and dignified.read · scan
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1174–1175Graeme's attack on a wearied unarmed king is condemned as unknightly; the people curse him with shame.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 400Haskell feels pride in the Confederate soldiers as fellow Americans and blames Sickles for incapacity.read · scan
William Morris, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1188–1190Mellyagraunce is condemned as unknightly, a slayer of unarmed men and stripper of ladies.read · scan
5e.The criticism of military glory
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 355The Greeks dearly paid for the prize of honor sought in arms.read · scan
Plutarch, CoriolanusVol. 12
- p. 180Peace would be more glorious for the superior Volscians to bestow.read · scan
- p. 180–181Conquering Rome yields only the reputation of having undone one's country; the world will blame him.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 309Romans resent a triumph over fellow citizens' calamity; Caesar had hitherto been ashamed of such victories.read · scan
- p. 319–320Caesar's lifelong pursuit of empire yields only an empty name and invidious glory.read · scan
Marcus Aurelius, The Meditations of Marcus AureliusVol. 2
- p. 270Great figures like Alexander are not models to imitate.read · scan
- p. 278Men proud of catching flies, hares or Sarmatians are like robbers; conquest is empty pride.read · scan
Niccolò Machiavelli, The PrinceVol. 36
- p. 30Slaughtering citizens, betraying friends and lacking pity and religion bring power but no glory; cruelty bars him from the greatest men.read · scan
Sir Thomas More, UtopiaVol. 36
- p. 213–215They count glory won in war as most contrary to true glory.read · scan
- p. 215Utopians prefer avoiding danger to seeking praise and renown.read · scan
William Habington, To Roses in the Bosom of Castara; Nox Nocti Indicat ScientiamVol. 40
- p. 252–253Pride of life and conqueror's ambition are confuted by the stars.read · scan
John Milton, Paradise LostVol. 4
- p. 331Conquerors win fame and glory as gods and patrons of mankind, though really plagues; what merits fame is hidden in silence.read · scan
- p. 331Conquerors achieve fame, high titles and rich prey, but lack true virtue.read · scan
John Locke, Some Thoughts Concerning EducationVol. 37
- p. 102Renown bestowed on conquerors lays cruelty in the way to honour.read · scan
Alexander Pope, Solitude; On a Certain Lady at Court; Essay on ManVol. 40
- p. 430The glory of heroes and conquerors blends with shame, stained by blood and plunder.read · scan
Adam Smith, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of NationsVol. 10
- p. 555People nurse visionary hopes of conquest and national glory from a prolonged war.read · scan
Robert Southey, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 732–734Glory and praise for the Duke of Marlborough are set against the war's misery.read · scan
Alessandro Manzoni, I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed)Vol. 21
- p. 466–467Gonzalo's interests of reputation outweigh the warned danger; he wants to make a figure in history.read · scan
- p. 525–526Victory's glory is valued independent of cause or object, at the cost of the suffering populace.read · scan
Percy Bysshe Shelley, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 867–869Kings of thought outlast conquerors who made the world their prey.read · scan
Thomas Carlyle, Sir Walter ScottVol. 25
- p. 438Scott's land-glory is compared to Alexander and Napoleon, and to Diogenes' contented tub.read · scan
Thomas Babington Macaulay, MachiavelliVol. 27
- p. 397National honor sullied and ancient Roman glory longed for.read · scan
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