Meaning: The quote "When Greeks joined Greeks, then was the tug of war" is a famous line from the play "The Rival Queens" by Nathaniel Lee, a prominent English dramatist of the late 17th century. The play, first performed in 1677, is based on the historical rivalry between two powerful women, Queen Mary I of Scotland and Queen Elizabeth I of England. The line itself is often interpreted to convey the idea that conflicts between people of the same group or community can be especially intense and challenging.

The phrase "When Greeks joined Greeks" refers to the concept of internal conflict within a unified or homogenous group. In ancient Greece, the city-states were often at odds with each other, engaging in frequent wars and power struggles. The phrase "tug of war" further emphasizes the intense and exhausting nature of the conflict that arises when members of the same group become adversaries. It suggests that such internal conflicts can be particularly difficult to resolve, as both sides are evenly matched and deeply entrenched in their positions.

Nathaniel Lee's use of this metaphor in "The Rival Queens" reflects the broader themes of political intrigue, power struggles, and the complexities of human relationships. The play explores the tensions and conflicts that arise when individuals with shared backgrounds and allegiances find themselves in opposition to one another. The quote captures the essence of the play's exploration of internal strife and the challenges it presents.

Beyond its literary context, the quote has been widely used to express the idea of internal discord and the difficulties that arise when members of the same group or community come into conflict. It has been applied to various situations, from political divisions to interpersonal conflicts, where the adversarial nature of the conflict is heightened by the shared identity or commonalities of the opposing parties.

The quote's enduring relevance can be seen in its applicability to a wide range of human experiences. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in navigating conflicts within a group or community. The imagery of a "tug of war" evokes the struggle and strain involved in such conflicts, as well as the potential for long-lasting and deeply impactful consequences.

In conclusion, Nathaniel Lee's quote "When Greeks joined Greeks, then was the tug of war" encapsulates the enduring truth that conflicts within a unified group are often particularly intense and challenging. Its use of metaphor and historical reference speaks to the universal nature of internal discord and the enduring relevance of the quote across different contexts and time periods. Whether in the realm of literature, politics, or personal relationships, the quote continues to resonate as a powerful expression of the complexities of internal conflict.