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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

STANZAS by GEORGE GORDON BYRON

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHEN A MAN HATH NO FREEDOM TO FIGHT FOR AT HOME
Last Line: AND, IF NOT SHOT OR HANG'D, YOU'LL GET KNIGHTED.
WHEN a man hath no freedom to fight for at home,
Let him combat for that of his neighbours;
Let him think of the glories of Greece and of Rome,
And get knock'd on the head for his labours.
To do good to mankind is the chivalrous plan,
And is always as nobly requited;
Then battle for freedom wherever you can,
And, if not shot or hang'd, you'll get knighted.



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