Meaning: The quote "When the freedom they wished for most was freedom from responsibility, then Athens ceased to be free and was never free again" by Edith Hamilton is a powerful observation about the relationship between freedom and responsibility. Edith Hamilton was an American educator and author who is best known for her popular interpretations of ancient Greek and Roman literature and mythology. Her quote reflects the deep understanding she had of the ancient world and its philosophical underpinnings.

In this quote, Hamilton is likely referring to the decline of Athenian democracy and the erosion of its freedom. Athens, the birthplace of democracy, was a city-state in ancient Greece known for its cultural achievements, including the development of philosophy, drama, and the arts. The Athenian democracy was a direct democracy, where citizens had the opportunity to participate directly in decision-making processes. However, with the growth of the Athenian Empire and the complexities of governing a large and diverse population, the issue of freedom and responsibility became increasingly relevant.

The quote suggests that a society's freedom is intricately linked to the willingness of its citizens to bear the responsibility that comes with it. In the context of Athens, as the desire for freedom from responsibility grew, the fabric of the democracy began to unravel. This can be interpreted as a warning against the dangers of a society that seeks freedom without acknowledging the responsibilities that come with it.

Hamilton's quote can be seen as a timeless commentary on the nature of freedom and the challenges that come with it. It speaks to the idea that true freedom is not just the absence of external constraints, but also the willingness to take on the responsibilities that come with self-governance and participation in the public sphere.

In contemporary society, the quote can be applied to various contexts. It can be seen as a critique of individuals or groups who demand freedom without understanding the responsibilities that accompany it. This could manifest in different forms, such as a reluctance to participate in the democratic process, a desire for entitlement without accountability, or a disregard for the consequences of one's actions on the broader community.

The quote also raises important questions about the relationship between individual freedom and the common good. It suggests that a society cannot maintain its freedom if its members are unwilling to bear the responsibilities that come with it. This can be interpreted as a call for civic engagement, ethical leadership, and a sense of collective responsibility in the maintenance of a free society.

In conclusion, Edith Hamilton's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between freedom and responsibility in a society. It prompts us to consider the implications of seeking freedom without acknowledging the duties and obligations that come with it. Whether in the context of ancient Athens or in contemporary society, the quote continues to resonate as a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of freedom and the responsibilities that accompany it.