Lacaenarum Apophthegmata

Of somewhat similar character is this: Chian exiles came to Sparta, and accused Paedaretus of many misdeeds; whereupon his mother Teleutia sent for them and, after listening to their complaints, feeling that her son was in the wrong, sent him this letter: Mither to Paedaretus. Aither dae better, or stay whare ye are, and gie up hope o’ gaen back safe to Sparta.

Another, when her son was being tried for some offence, said to him, My child, either rid yourself of the charges, or rid yourself of life.

Another, as she accompanied a lame son on his way to the field of battle, said, At every step, my child, remember your valour.[*](Cf.Moralia, 331 b; Stobaeus, Florilegium, vii. 29; Cicero, De oratore, ii. 61 (249).)

Another, when her son came back to her from the field of battle wounded in the foot, and in great pain, said, If you remember your valour, my child, you will feel no pain, and be quite cheerful.[*](Cf.Moralia, 331 b; Stobaeus, Florilegium, vii. 29; Cicero, De oratore, ii. 61 (249).)

A Spartan, wounded in battle and unable to walk, was crawling on all fours. He was mortified at being so ridiculous; but his mother said to him, How much better to be joyful over your bravery rather than to be mortified at silly laughter.

Another, as she handed her son his shield, exhorted him, saying, Either this or upon this.[*](Referred to Gorgo as the author by Aristotle in his Aphorisms, as quoted by Stobaeus, Florilegium, vii. 31, but it is often spoken of as a regular Spartan custom. Cf., for example, the scholium on Thucydides, ii. 39. Ancient writers were not agreed whether the second half meant to fall upon the shield (dead or wounded) or to be brought home dead upon it. In support of the second (traditional) interpretation Cf. Moralia, 235 a, and Valerius Maximus, ii. 7, ext. 2.)

Another, as her son was going forth to war, said, as she gave the shield into his hands, This shield your father kept always safe for you; do you, therefore, keep it safe, or cease to live.

Another, in answer to her son who said that the sword which he carried was short,[*](Cf.Moralia, 191 e, supra.) said, Add a step to it.

Another, hearing that her son had been slain fighting bravely in the line of battle, said, Yes, he

Another, hearing that her son had been killed in battle on the spot where he had been placed, said, Lay him away, and let his brother take his place.