[
61]
We must realize, however, that while we have set
1
down four cardinal virtues from which as sources
moral rectitude and moral duty emanate, that
achievement is most glorious in the eyes of the
world which is won with a spirit great, exalted, and
superior to the vicissitudes of earthly life. And so,
when we wish to hurl a taunt, the very first to rise to
our lips is, if possible, something like this:
“For ye, young men, show a womanish soul, yon maiden2 a man's;
”
and this:
“Thou son of Salmacis, win spoils that cost nor sweat nor blood.
”
[p. 65]
When, on the other hand, we wish to pay a compliment, we somehow or other praise in more eloquent
strain the brave and noble work of some great soul.
Hence there is an open field for orators on the subjects of Marathon, Salamis, Plataea, Thermopylae,
and Leuctra, and hence our own Cocles, the Decii,
Gnaeus and Publius Scipio, Marcus Marcellus, and
countless others, and, above all, the Roman People
as a nation are celebrated for greatness of spirit.
Their passion for military glory, moreover, is shown
in the fact that we see their statues usually in
soldier's garb.
