Edmund Burke, a 17th century British writer, said that the glory of Europe is gone forever...?

Question

What do you think he meant by that ?

I was surprised to read this quote...I have always thought of Europe as exotic and chivalrous...any comments ?

Answer 1

Perhaps it needs to be understood contextually.  Although he was a British member of parliament he didn't support the King when he opposed American independence, so it might have something to do with this.  More likely however, is that he was a very vocal opponent of the French revolution.  It was feared at the time that all the great European monarchies might fall and I believe this is what he was referring to.

I don't think that there was much chivalry around at the time!  Sounds a little Arthurian?  Its my belief that things were pretty unsettled generally and most folks did all they could to survive.