Say, What Is Honour?--'tis the Finest Sense
Say, What Is Honour?--'tis the Finest Sense - meaning Summary
Honour as Civic Justice
The poem defines honour as a moral form of justice that rejects personal weakness and protects life and reputation. Wordsworth extends the idea to nations: honour inspires courage in desperate war and can produce victory, yet political prudence may lead states to accept unjust terms. He warns that self-doubt forfeits opportunity, and that living with infamy is a fate worse than defeat.
Read Complete AnalysesSAY, what is Honour?--'Tis the finest sense Of 'justice' which the human mind can frame, Intent each lurking frailty to disclaim, And guard the way of life from all offence Suffered or done. When lawless violence Invades a Realm, so pressed that in the scale Of perilous war her weightiest armies fail, Honour is hopeful elevation,--whence Glory, and triumph. Yet with politic skill Endangered States may yield to terms unjust; Stoop their proud heads, but not unto the dust-- A Foe's most favourite purpose to fulfil: Happy occasions oft by self-mistrust Are forfeited; but infamy doth kill.
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