Battle of Melos

The Battle of Melos was fought in 415 BC between Athens and Melos. Melos had attempted to remain neutral in the Peloponnesian War, but Athens attacked and forced Melos to surrender. All Melian males capable of bearing arms were killed, and the women and children became slaves.

The Melian dialogue which reportedly preceded it is found in a passage found in Book V (85-113) of the History of the Peloponnesian War by the ancient Greek historian Thucydides.

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    Each reaching and aspiration is an instinct with which all nature consists and cöoperates, and therefore it is not in vain. But alas! each relaxing and desperation is an instinct too. To be active, well, happy, implies courage. To be ready to fight in a duel or a battle implies desperation, or that you hold your life cheap.
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