HAMILTON, MADISON, JAY – The Federalist

THE FEDERALIST

By Alexander HAMILTON, James MADISON, John JAY

Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill

QUOTES FOR DISCUSSION

BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE on Authors of The Federalist

On the same day it was published, and immediately beside it in the papers, appeared an attack upon the Constitution, signed by Cato, who was known to be Governor Clinton. Thereafter, many of the most powerful figures in New York political life, writing under the name of renowned Romans, came out in opposition to the new instrument of government.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

ALEXANDER HAMILTON

Alexander Hamilton although only thirty years old and an immigrant, was the natural leader for the New York supporters of the new Constitution.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

... His youth useful talents at writing and commerce we're so unusual that friends took up a collection and sent him to America in 1772 to complete his education.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

He used his writing talents to defend the cause of the Colonies during the events leading up to the Revolution, so successfully, in fact, that two of his pamphlets were thought to be the work of Jay.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

With a thirst for military glory that was to remain with him throughout his life, he took part in the New York campaign as an artillery captain and won a place on Washington's staff.  Washington employed him, however, for his power with the pen, and for four years he was the General's private secretary.  In this position he became acquainted with many of the most influential men in the states and learned at first hand the weakness of the Confederation.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

JAMES MADISON

James Madison was a representative of the Southern aristocracy the eldest son of a Virginia planter.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 23

He, [James Madison], wrote an essay on "The Vices of the Political System of the United States," made an extensive study of ancient and modern confederacies, and drew up an outline for a new system of government. This was a basis for the Virginia plan which at Philadelphia led to the formation of the Constitution.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

JOHN JAY

John Jay at the time the Federalist appeared, enjoyed the greatest prestige of any of the three men. Buy some he was considered as second only to Washington and service to his country. The oldest of the three he came from a well-to-do New York merchant family of Huguenot extraction. He served on the Continental Congress from its inception in 1774 and was later its president.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

His, [John Jay], greatest fame at the time, however, came to him as a result of his role as a diplomat. His first venture into European diplomacy was to obtain a treaty with Spain. That proving a failure, he was sent on to Paris to act with John Adams and Franklin in negotiating the terms of peace with Great Britain. Described by Adams as "the Washington of the negotiations," he was instrumental in obtaining recognition of the independence of the United States which ended the Revolutionary War. He was rewarded for his role by being made the Secretary of Foreign Affairs for the Continental Congress, a post he continued to fill until Jefferson took over as Secretary of State under the new government.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

All three Federalist collaborators in addition to their wide practical experience We're Men of high intellectual culture along very similar lines each began his schooling under a Christian minister and completed it with a college education.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

Jay received his master's degree in 1767 with a discourse on "The Usefulness of the Passions," and the debate on "Whether a man ought to engage in war without being persuaded of the justice of his cause."

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

Hamilton unlike them, depended upon the practice of law for his living, and, while not holding down a political office, earned the reputation of being the most brilliant lawyer in New York.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

The actual writing of the Federalists and the authorship of the particular papers have been a matter of long and sometimes bitter dispute. They were done in a great hurry, and, as Madison later remarked, they often went directly from the writer to the printer without being seen by the other collaborators.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 24

Madison... lead the move for a Bill of Rights, the lack of which had been one of the main issues in the fight for ratification.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

[John Jay as the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court] The decision in his greatest case, Chisholm vs. Georgia, caused a Revolt in Congress over its emphasis on the supremacy of the national government over that of the states. This resulted in the passing of the 11th Amendment to the Constitution, asserting The sovereign irresponsibility of the states as regards private suits by citizens to another state.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

It was so bitterly attacked by the Jefferson and Madison groups, known as "Republicans," that in many places Jay was burnt in effigy.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

The three Federalist authors, although divided by partisan strife, were brought together once again in Washington's Farewell Address. Washington appealed to all three for advice, and their suggestions, with most from Hamilton, went into the final draft of the message.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

Hamilton made the brake irreparable by writing a pamphlet attacking AdamHamilton made the break irreparable by writing a pamphlet attacking Adams, which split the Federalist Party and led to its disintegration. His partisan battles reached a climax when he was challenged to a duel by Aaron Burr, then Vice President, with whom Hamilton had long been in political competition in the municipal, state, and national field. Hamilton died as a result of a shot received from Burr's pistol.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

[Jay] His administration is noted, among other things, for the law commanding the gradual abolition of slavery in New York. All three men looked up on slavery as a tragedy for America.

Biographical note, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, “The Federalist,” Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 25

THE FEDERALIST

NUMBER 1 - Alexander Hamilton

It has been frequently remarked that it seems to have been reserved to the people of this country, by their conduct an example, to decide the important question, weather societies of men are really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend for their political constitutions on accident and force.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 1, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 29

For in politics, as in religion, it is equally absurd to aim at making proselytes by fire and sword. Heresies in either can rarely be cured by persecution. And yet, however just the sentiments will be allowed to be, we have already sufficient indications that it will happen in this as in all former cases of great national discussion. A torrent of angry and malignant passions will be let loose. To judge from the conduct of the opposite parties, we shall be led to conclude that they will mutually hope to events the justice of their opinions, and to increase the number of their convert by the loudest of their declamations and the bitterness of their invectives.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 1, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 30

In the course of the preceding observations, I have had an eye, my fellow citizens, to putting you upon your guard against all attempts, from whatever quarter, to influence your decision, in a matter of the utmost moment to your welfare, by any Impressions other than those which may result from the evidence of truth.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 1, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 30

NUMBER 2 - John Jay

Whatever maybe the arguments or inducements which have wrought this change in the sentiments and declarations of these gentlemen, it certainly would not be wise in the people at large to adopt these new political tenants without being fully convinced that they are founded in truth and sound policy.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 2, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 31

It has often given me pleasure to observe, that independent America was not composed of detached and distant territories, but that one connected, fertile, wide-spreading country was the portion of our western sons of liberty.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 2, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 31

A strong since of the value and blessings of union induced the people, at a very early period, to institute a federal government to preserve and perpetuate it. They formed it almost as soon as they had a political existence; nay, add a time when their habitations were in flames, when many of their citizens were bleeding, been when the progress of hostility am desolation left little room for those calm and mature inquiries and reflections which must ever proceed the formation of a wise and well balanced government for a free people.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 2, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 32

NUMBER 3 - John Jay

It is not a new observation that the people of any country (if, like the Americans, intelligent and well informed) seldom use adopt and steadily preservere for many years in an erroneous opinion respecting their interests.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 3, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 33

Among the many objects to which a wise and free people find it necessary to direct their attention, that of providing for their safety seems to be the first.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 3, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 33

At present I mean only to consider it as it respects security for the preservation of peace and tranquility, as well as against dangers from foreign arms and influence, as from dangers of the like kind arising from domestic causes.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 3, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 33

Because such violences are more frequently caused by the passions and interests of a part than of the whole; of one or two states than of the Union. Not a single Indian war has yet been occasioned by aggressions of the present federal government, feeble has it is; but there are several instances of Indian hostility having been provoked by the improper conduct of individual states, who, either unable or unwilling to restrain for punish offenses, have given occasion to the slaughter of many innocent inhabitants.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 3, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 34

The pride of states, as well as of men, naturally disposes them to justify all their actions, and opposes their acknowledging, correcting, or repairing their errors and offenses. National government, is such cases, will not be affected by this pride, but will proceed with moderation and candour to consider and decide on the means most proper to extricate them from the difficulties which threaten them.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 3, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 34

NUMBER 4 - John Jay

 It is too true, however disgraceful it may be to human nature, that nations in general will make war whenever they have a prospect of getting anything by it;

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 4, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 35

Whatever maybe our situation, whether firmly united under one national government, or split into a number of confederacies, certain it is, that foreign nations will know and view it exactly as it is; and they will act towards us accordingly. If they see that our national government is efficient and well administered, our trade prudently regulated, our militia properly organised and disciplined, our resources and finances discreetly managed, our credit reestablished, our people free, contented, and united, they will be much more disposed to cultivate our friendship than provoke our resentment.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 4, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 36

NUMBER  5 - John Jay

 [Excerpt from Queen Anne letter to Scotch Parliament, July 1706] An entire and perfect union will be the solid foundation of lasting peace: It will secure your religion, liberty, and property; remove the animosities amongst yourselves, and the jealousies and differences betwixt our two kingdoms. It must increase your strength, riches and trade; and by this union the whole island, being joined in affection and free from all apprehensions of different interests, will be enabled to resist all its enemies.

John Jay, “The Federalist,” Number 5, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 37

NUMBER 6 - Alexander Hamilton

To look for a continuation of harmony between a number of independent, unconnected sovereignties in the same neighbourhood, would be to disregard the uniform course of humans events, and to set at defiance the accumulated experience of ages. The causes of hostility among nations are innumerable.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 6, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 39

The genius of Republics, (they say), is pacific; the spirit of commerce has a tendency to soften the manners of men, and to extinguish those inflammable humours which have so often kindled into wars. Commercial republics, like ours will never be disposed to waste themselves in ruinous contentions with each other. They will be governed by mutual interest and will cultivate a spirit of mutual amity and concord.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 6, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 40

Have republics in practice been less addicted to war than monarchies? Are not the former administered by men as well as the latter?

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 6, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 40

Is it not well known that their determinations are often governed by a few individuals in whom they place confidence, and are, of course, liable to be tinctured by the passions and views of those individuals?

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 6, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 41

Is it not time to awake from the deceitful dream of a golden age, and to adopt as a practical Maxim for the direction of our political conduct that we, as well as the other inhabitants of the globe, are yet remote from the happy Empire of perfect wisdom and perfect virtue?

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 6, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 41

NUMBER 8 - Alexander Hamilton

Safety from external danger is the most powerful dictator of national conduct. Even the ardent love of liberty will, after a time, give way to its dictates. The violent destruction of life and property incident to war, the continual effort and alarm attendant on a state of continual danger, will compel nations the most attached to liberty to resort for repose and security to institutions which have a tendency to destroy their civil and political rights. To be more safe, they at length become willing to run the risk of being less free.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 8, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 45

 NUMBER 9 - Alexander Hamilton

It is impossible to read the history of the petty republics of Greece and Italy without feeling sensations of horror and disgust at the distractions with which they were continually agitated and at the rapid succession of revolutions by which they were kept in the state of perpetual vibration between the extremes of tyranny and anarchy. If they exhibit occasional calms, these only serve as short-lived contracts to the furious storms that are to succeed. If now and then intervals of felicity open to view, we behold them with a mixture of regret, arising from the reflection that the pleasing scenes before us are soon to be overwhelmed by the tempestuous waves of sedition and party rage.
Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 9, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 47

The efficacy of various principles is now well understood, which were either not known at all, or imperfectly known to the ancients.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 9, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 47

Mankind would have been a been obliged at length to live constantly under the government of a single person, had they not contrived a kind of constitution that has all the internal advantages of a republican, together with the external force of a monarchical, government. I mean a Confederate Republic.

Alexander Hamilton, “The Federalist,” Number 9, Great Books, volume 43: American state papers; The Federalist; J. S. Mill, Pg. 48

GIBBON, EDWARD - The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire

EDWARD GIBBON: The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
Great Books Volume 40, Gibbon I

QUOTES FOR DISCUSSION

After a revolution of thirteen or fourteen centuries, that religion is still professed by the nations of Europe, the most distinguished portion of human kind in arts and learning as well as in arms.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 179

As the protection of Heaven was deservedly withdrawn from the ungrateful race, their faith acquired a proportionable degree of vigour and purity.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The contemporaries of Moses and Joshua had beheld with careless indifference the most amazing miracles.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The Jewish religion was admirably fitted for defense, but it was never designed for conquest.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The divine promised were originally made, and the distinguishing rite of circumcision was enjoined, to a single family.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The conquest of the land of Canaan was accompanied with so many wonderful and with so many bloody circumstances, that the victorious Jews were left in a state of irreconcilable hostility with all their neighbours.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The descendants of Abraham were flattered by the opinion that they alone were the heirs of the covenant, and they were apprehensive of diminishing the value of their inheritance by sharing it too easily with the strangers of the earth.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 180

The painful and even dangerous rite of circumcision was alone capable of repelling a willing proselyte from the door of the synagogue.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 181

The first fifteen bishops of Jerusalem were all circumcised Jews; and the congregation over which they presided united the Law of Moses with the doctrine of Christ. It was natural that the primitive tradition of a church which was founded only forty days after the death of Christ, and was governed almost as many years under the immediate inspection of his apostle, should be received as the standard of orthodoxy.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 182

In a few years after the return of the church of Jerusalem, it became a matter of doubt and controversy whether a man who sincerely acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah, but who still continued to observe the Law of Moses, could possibly hope for salvation.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 182

There are some objections against the authority of Moses and the prophets which too readily present themselves to the skeptical.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 183

The Gnostics were distinguished as the most polite, the most learned, and the most wealthy of the Christian name; ...They were almost without exception of the race of the Gentiles, and their principle founders seem to have been natives of Syria or Egypt, where the warmth of the climate disposes both the mind and the body to indolent and contemplative devotion.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, pg. 183

The writings of Cicero represent in the most lively of colours the ignorance, the errors, and the uncertainty of the ancient philosophers with regard to the immortality of the soul. When they are desirous of arming their disciples against the fear of death, they inculcate, as an obvious though melancholy position, that the fatal stroke of our dissolution releases us from the calamities of life; and that those can no longer suffer that no longer exist.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, II. Doctrine of Future Life, pg. 186

Since therefore the most sublime efforts of philosophy can extend no further than feebly to point out the desire, the hope, or, at most, the probability of a future state, there is nothing, except a divine revelation that can ascertain the existence and describe the condition of the invisible country which is destined to receive the souls of men after their separation from the body.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, II. Doctrine of Future Life, pg. 186

The duty of a historian does not call upon him to interpose his private judgement in this nice and important controversy; but he ought not to dissemble the difficulty of adopting such a theory as may reconcile the interest of religion with that of reason, of making a proper application of that theory, and of defining with precision the limits of that happy period, exempt from error and from deceit, to which we might be disposed to extend the gift of supernatural powers.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, III Miraculous Powers, pg. 190

...and among the various articles which excite their pious indignation, we may enumerate... And the practice of shaving the beard went according to the expression of Tertullian, is a lie against our own faces, and an impious attempt improve the works of the Creator. When Christianity was introduced among the rich and the polite, the observation of these thinking the laws was left, as it would be at present, to the few her ambitious of superior sanctity.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, IV Pure and austere morals, pg. 192

It was their favorite opinion that if Adam had preserved his obedience to the Creator, he would have lived for ever in a state of virgin purity, and that some harmless mode of vegetation might have peopled paradise with a race of innocent and immortal beings. The use of marriage was permitted only to his fallen posterity, as a necessary expedient to continue the human species, and as a restraint, however imperfect, on the natural licentiousness of desire.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, IV Pure and austere morals, pg. 193

The practice of second nuptials was branded with the name of legal adultery.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, IV Pure and austere morals, pg. 193

Since desire was imputed as a crime, and marriage was tolerated as a defect, it was consistent with the same principles to consider a state of celibacy as the nearest approach to the Divine perfection.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, IV Pure and austere morals, pg. 193

The ecclesiastical governors of the Christians were taught to unite the wisdom of the serpent with the innocence of the Dove; but as the former was refined, so the latter was insensibly corrupted, by the habits of government.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, pg. 194

Instead of one apostolic founder, the utmost boast of Antioch, or of Ephesus, or of Corinth, the banks of the Tiber we're supposed to have been honoured with the preaching and martyrdom of the two most eminent among the apostles, and the Bishops of Rome very prudently claimed the inheritance of whatsoever prerogatives were attributed either to the person or to the office of Saint Peter.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, pg. 196

The fervour of the first proselytes prompted them to sell those worldly possessions which they despised, to lay the price of them at the feet of the Apostles, and to content themselves with receiving an equal share out of the General Distribution.  The progress of the Christian religion relaxed and gradually abolished this generous institution, which, in hands less pure than those of the Apostles, would too soon have been corrupted and abused by the returning selfishness of human nature; and the converts who embraced the new religion were permitted to retain the possession of their patrimony to receive legacies and inheritance and the conference who embrace the new religion were permitted to retain the position of their patrimony, to receive legacies and inheritances, and to increase their separate property by all the lawful means of trade and Industry.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, pg. 197

In the time of the Emperor Decius it was the opinion of the magistrates that the Christians of Rome were possessed of very considerable wealth, that vessels of gold and silver were used in their religious worship, and that many among their proselytes had sold their lands and houses to increase the public riches of the sect, at the expense, indeed, of their unfortunate children who found themselves beggars because their parents had been saints.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 197

We should listen with distrust to the suspicions of strangers and enemies on this occasion, however, they receive a very specious and probable colour from the two following circumstances, the only ones that have reached our knowledge which  define any precise sums or convey any distinct idea.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government,  pg. 197

These oblations, for the most part, were made in money; nor was the society of Christians either desirous or capable of acquiring, to any considerable degree, the incumbent of landed property.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 198

Their love of the marvelous and supernatural, their curiosity with regard to future events and their strong propensity to extend their hopes and fears beyond the limits of the visible world, were the principal causes which favoured the establishment of polytheism.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 201

The authentic histories of the actions of Christ were composed in the Greek language and a considerable distance from Jerusalem, and after the Gentile converts were grown extremely numerous. As soon as those histories were translated into the Latin tongue they were perfectly intelligible to all the subjects of Rome excepting only to the peasants of Syria and Egypt for whose benefit particular versions were afterwards made.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 201

The public highways, which had been constructed for the use of the legions, opened an easy passage for the Christian missionaries...

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 201

Silence is indeed consistent with devotion but as is seldom compatible with zeal we may perceive and lament the languid state of Christianity in those provinces which had exchanged the Celtic for the Latin tongue, since they did not, during the first three centuries, give birth to a single ecclesiastical writer.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 203

The progress of Christianity was not confined to the Roman Empire; and, according to the primitive fathers, who interpret facts by prophecy, the new religion, within a century after the death of its Divine Author, had already visited every part of the globe. "There exists not," says Justin Martyr, "a people, whether Greek or Barbarian, or any other race of men, by whatsoever appellation or manners they may be distinguished, however ignorant of arts or agriculture, whether they dwell under tents, or wander about in covered wagons, among whom prayers are not offered up in the name of a crucified Jesus to the Father and Creator of all things."

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 204

...but, as we are left without any distinct information, it is impossible to determine, and it is difficult even to conjecture, the real numbers of the primitive Christians.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 204

They presume to alter the Holy Scriptures, to abandon the ancient rule of faith, and to form their opinions according to the subtle precepts of logic. The science of the church is neglected for the study of geometry and they lose sight of heaven while they are employed in measuring the earth. Euclid is perpetually in their hands. Aristotle and Theophrastus are the objects of their admiration; and they express in uncommon reverence for the works of Galen. Their errors are derived from the abuse of the arts and sciences of the infidel, and they corrupt the simplicity of the Gospel by the refinements of human reason. (Quoting Eusebius)

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 15, V Christian Republic, I. Rewards of government, pg. 205

If we seriously consider the purity of the Christian religion, the sanctity of its more impressive and the innocent as well as austere lives of the greater number of those who during the first ages embraced the faith of the Gospel, we should naturally suppose that so benevolent a doctrine would have been received with due reverence even by the unbelieving world; that the learned and the polite, however they might deride the miracles, would have esteemed the virtues of the new sect; and that they magistrates, instead of persecuting, would have protected and order of men who yielded the most passive obedience to the laws, though they declined the active cares of war and government. If, on the other hand, we recollect the universal toleration of Polytheism, as it was invariably maintained by the faith of the people, the incredulity of philosophers, and the policy of the Roman senate and emperors, we are at a loss to discover what new offense the Christians had committed, what new provocation could exasperate the mild indifference of antiquity, and what new motives could urge the Roman princes, who beheld without concern a thousand forms of religion subsisting in peace under their gentle sway, to inflict a severe punishment on any part of their subjects who had chosen for themselves a singular, but an inoffensive mode faith and worship.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 206

The separate (if it be possible) a few authentic as well as interesting facts from an undigested mass of fiction and error, and to relate, in a clear and rational manner, the causes, the extent, the duration, of the most important circumstances of the persecutions to which the first Christians were exposed, is the design of the present chapter.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 207

The secretaries of a persecuted religion, depressed by fear, animated with resentment, and perhaps heated by enthusiasm, are seldom in a proper temper of mind calmly to investigate, or candidly to appreciate the motives of their enemies, which often escape the impartial and discerning view even of those who are placed at a secure distance from the flames of persecution.
Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 207

The difference between them is simple and obvious, but according to the sentiments of antiquity, it was of the highest importance. The Jews were a nation, the Christians were sect; and if it was natural for every community to respect the sacred institutions of their neighbors, it was incumbent upon them to persevere in those of their ancestors.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 208

By imitating the awful secrecy which reigned in the Eleusinian mysteries, the Christians had flattered themselves that they should render their sacred institutions more respectable in the eyes of the Pagan World. But the event, as it often happens to the operations of subtle policy, deceived their wishes and their expectations. It was concluded that they only concealed what they would have blushed to disclose. Their mistaken prudence afforded an opportunity for malice to invent, and for suspicious credulity to believe, the horrid tales which described the Christians as the most wicked of human kind, who practiced in their dark recesses every abomination that a deprived fancy could suggest, and who solicited the favor of their unknown God by the sacrifice of every moral virtue. There were many who pretended to confess or to relate the ceremonies of this abhorred society. It was asserted that a new-born infant, entirely covered over with flour, was presented, like some mystic symbol of initiation, to the knife of the proselyte, who unknowingly inflicted many a secret and mortal wound on the innocent victim of his error; that as soon as the cruel deed was perpetrated, the sectaries drank up the blood, greedily tore asunder the quivering members, and pledged themselves to eternal secrecy, by a mutual consciousness of guilt.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 210

History, which undertakes to record the transactions of the past, for the instruction of future ages, would ill deserve that honorable office if she condescended to plead the cause of tyrants or to justify the maxims of persecution. It must however, be acknowledged that the conduct of the emperors who appeared the least favorable to the primitive church is by no means so criminal as that of modern sovereigns who have employed the arm of violence and terror against the religious opinions of any part of their subjects.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 211

By the wise dispensation of Providence a mysterious veil was cast over the infancy of the church, which, till the faith of the Christians was matured, and their numbers were multiplied, served to protect them not only from the malice but even from the knowledge the Pagan world.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 211

It is somewhat remarkable that the flames of war consumed almost to at the same time the temple of Jerusalem and the capital of Rome;

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 214

The emperors levied a general capitation tax on the Jewish people; and although the sum assessed on the head of each individual was inconsiderable, the use for which it was designed, and the severity with which it was exacted, was considered as an intolerable grievance.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 214

The impatient clamours of the multitude denounced the Christians as the enemies of gods and men, doomed them to the severest tortures, and, venturing to accuse by names some of the most distinguished of the new sectaries, required with irresistible vehemence that they should be instantly apprehended and cast to the lions.  The provincial governors and magistrates who presided in the public spectacles were usually inclined to gratify the inclinations,  and to appease the rage of the people by the sacrifice of a few obnoxious victims.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 216

Distinctions like these, whilst they display the exalted merit, betray the inconsiderable number, of those who suffered and of those were died for the profession of Christianity.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, Pg. 220

The epistles which Ignatius composed as he was carried in chains through the cities of Asia breathe sentiments the most repugnant to the ordinary feelings of human nature. He earnestly beseeches the Romans that, when he should be exposed in the amphitheater, they would not, by their kind but unseasonable intercession, deprived him of the crown of glory; and he declares his resolution to provoke and irritate the wild beasts which might be employed as the instruments of his death.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, Pg. 220

"Unhappy men!" exclaimed the proconsul Antonimus to the Christians of Asia, "unhappy men! if you are thus weary of your lives, is it so difficult for you to find ropes and precipices?"

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 220

The minds of those princes had never been enlightened by science; education had never softened their temper. They owed their greatness to their swords and in their most elevated fortune they still retained their superstitious prejudices of soldiers and peasants. 

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 226

 (Galerius) though he readily consented to exclude the Christians from holding any employments in the household or the army, he urged in the strongest terms the danger as well as cruelty of shedding the blood of those deluded fanatics.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, pg. 226

It was enacted that their churches, in all the provinces of the empire should be demolished to their foundations; and the punishment of death was denounced against all who should presume to hold any secret assemblies for the purpose of religious worship.

Edward Gibbon, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, GB Vol. 40 – GIBBON I, chapter 16, Conduct towards Christians, Pg. 227

KHAYYÁM, OMAR - Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám

Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám

Translated by Edward FitzGerald

(An English translation of the title: “Omar Kayyám's Quatrains”)

QUOTES FOR DISCUSSION

First Translation

XI
Here with a Loaf of Bread beneath the Bough,
A Flask of Wine, a Book of Verse – and Thou
Beside me singing in the Wilderness –
And Wilderness is Paradise enow.

XII
“How sweet is mortal Sovranty!” – think some:
Others – “How blest the Paradise to come!”
Ah, take the Cash in hand and waive the Rest;
oh, the brave Music of a distant Drum!

XIV

The Worldly Hope men set their Hearts upon
Turns Ashes – or it prospers; and anon,
Like Snow upon the Desert’s dusty Face
Lighting a little Hour or two – is gone.

XI
Lo! Some we love, the loveliest and the best
That Time and Fate of all their Vintage prest,
Have drunk their Cup a Round or two before,
And one by one crept silently to Rest.

XXIV

Alike for those who for To-day prepare,
And those that after a To-morrow stare,
A Muezzín from the Tower of Darkness cries
“Fools! Your Reward is neither Here nor There!”

XXXII

There was a Door to which I found no Key:
There was a Veil past which I could not see:
Some little Talk awhile of Me and Thee
There seem’d – and then no more of Thee and Me.

XLVII

And if the Wine you drink, the Lip you press,
End in the Nothing all Things end in – Yes-
Then fancy while Thou art, Thou art but what
Thou Shalt be – Nothing – Thou Shalt not be less.

LI

The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ,
Moves on: nor all thy Piety nor Wit
Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line,
Nor all thy Tears wash out a of Word of it.

Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám

Second Translation

XII

Here with a little Bread beneath the Bough,
A Flask of Wine, a Book of Verse- and Thou
Beside me singing in the Wilderness-
Oh, Wilderness were Paradise enow!

XIII

Some of the Glories of This World; and some
Sigh for the Prophet’s Paradise to come;
Ah, take the Cash, and let the promise go,
nor heed the music of a distant Drum.

XXII

For some we loved, the loveliest and the best
That from his Vintage rolling Time has prest,
Have drunk their Cup a Round or two before,
And one by one crept silently to rest.

XXVII

Alike for those who for To-day prepare,
And those that after some To-morrow stare,
A Muezzín from the Tower of Darkness cries,
“Fools! your Reward is neither Here nor There.”

XXXV

There was a Door to which I found no Key:
There was a Veil through which I could not see:
Some little talk awhile of Me and Thee
There was – and then no more of Thee and Me.

XLV

And if the Cup you drink, the Lip you press,
End in what All begins and ends in – Yes;
Imagine then you are what heretofore
You were – hereafter you shall not be less.

LXXVI

The Moving Finger writes; and, having write,
Moves on: nor all your Piety nor Wit
Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line,
Nor all your Tears wash out a of Word of it.

Create your own Rubáiyát

Choose  a short story

List at least a dozen words describing the story.

List words that rhyme with those words.

Create a stanza of four lines using a set of these rhymed words.