Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the read more

Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value.

The worst form of tyranny the world has ever known the tyranny of the weak over the strong. It is read more

The worst form of tyranny the world has ever known the tyranny of the weak over the strong. It is the only tyranny that lasts.

Under conditions of tyranny, it is far easier to act than to think.

Under conditions of tyranny, it is far easier to act than to think.

I knew him tyrannous; and tyrants' fears
Decrease not, but grow faster than the years;
And should read more

I knew him tyrannous; and tyrants' fears
Decrease not, but grow faster than the years;
And should he doubt it, as no doubt he doth,
That I should open to the list'ning air
How many worthy princes' bloods were shed
To keep his bed of blackness unlaid ope,
To lop that doubt, he'll fill this land with arms
And make pretense of wrong that I have done him;
When all, for mine, if I may call offense,
Must feel war's blow, who spares not innocence;
Which love to all, of which thyself art one,
Who now reproved'st me for't--

The tyrant dies and his rule ends, the martyr dies and his rule begins.

The tyrant dies and his rule ends, the martyr dies and his rule begins.

Under conditions of tyranny it is far easier to act than to think.

Under conditions of tyranny it is far easier to act than to think.

Every tyrant who has lived has believed in freedom--for himself.

Every tyrant who has lived has believed in freedom--for himself.

Is there no tyrant but the crowned one?
[Fr., N'est-on jamais tyran qu'avec un diademe?]

Is there no tyrant but the crowned one?
[Fr., N'est-on jamais tyran qu'avec un diademe?]

Th' oppressive, sturdy, man-destroying villains,
Who ravag'd kingdoms, and laid empires waste,
And in a cruel wantonness read more

Th' oppressive, sturdy, man-destroying villains,
Who ravag'd kingdoms, and laid empires waste,
And in a cruel wantonness of power,
Thinn'd states of half their people, and gave up
To want the rest.