Meaning: The quote "It was appointed by law in Athens, that the obsequies of the citizens who fell in battle should be performed at the public expense, and in the most honorable manner." by Edward Everett, a prominent American statesman, reflects on the ancient Athenian practice of honoring fallen soldiers. This quote highlights the deep sense of civic duty and communal responsibility that permeated Athenian society, as well as the value placed on honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their city-state.

In ancient Athens, the obsequies, or funeral rites, of citizens who died in battle were considered a matter of public importance and were conducted with great solemnity and respect. The city-state bore the expenses for these ceremonies, underscoring the collective responsibility of the community to honor and remember those who had given their lives in defense of the polis.

The practice of publicly-funded and honorable funerals for fallen soldiers in Athens was not only a demonstration of respect for the individual warriors, but also a means of affirming the values and virtues of the city-state as a whole. It served as a powerful symbol of the reciprocal relationship between the state and its citizens, emphasizing the idea that the welfare and protection of the community were paramount and deserving of recognition and commemoration.

Edward Everett, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in American politics and academia during the 19th century. As a scholar and orator, he was deeply interested in the history of classical civilizations, including ancient Greece. In this quote, Everett likely sought to draw parallels between the values and practices of ancient Athens and those of the young American republic, emphasizing the importance of civic duty, sacrifice, and collective responsibility in the context of a democratic society.

The concept of honoring fallen soldiers at public expense and in the most honorable manner has resonated throughout history, and it continues to be a fundamental aspect of many societies' military traditions. In modern times, this sentiment is reflected in various forms, such as state-funded military funerals, national monuments dedicated to fallen soldiers, and commemorative events that recognize the sacrifices of service members.

The quote by Edward Everett serves as a reminder of the timeless significance of honoring those who have given their lives in service to their communities and countries. It underscores the enduring human impulse to recognize and memorialize the bravery and selflessness of individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of shared values and principles.

In conclusion, the quote "It was appointed by law in Athens, that the obsequies of the citizens who fell in battle should be performed at the public expense, and in the most honorable manner" by Edward Everett encapsulates the deep-seated tradition of honoring fallen soldiers and the communal responsibility to remember and respect those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It reflects the enduring importance of this practice across different cultures and historical periods, serving as a testament to the enduring human values of duty, sacrifice, and collective remembrance.