by Coleridge · Cluster: Mortality · Grave · Memento Mori
Abstract
An epigram (from an old tragedy) reminding rulers that power derives from law and that they too must die, paired with a barb on faded beauty; memento mori as political counsel.
Connections
Topoi: Memento Mori Themes & Concepts: Mortality, Power and Corruption, Justice Right and Wrong, Transience Forms & Genres: Epigram
Testo integrale / Full text
FROM AN OLD TRAGEDY, VIZ. AGATHA TO KING ARCHELAUS
Three truths should make thee often think and pause;
The first is, that thou govern’st over men;
The second, that thy power is from the laws;
And this the third, that thou must die! — and then? —
First published in Morning Post, Sept. 27, 1802. Included in Essays,
&c., iii. 992. First collected P. and D. W., 1877, ii. 162.
From me, Aurelia! you desired
Your proper praise to know;
Well! you’re the FAIR by all admired —
Some twenty years ago.
First published in Morning Post, Oct. 2, 1802.