Thought for the week
Encouraging and engaging debate, discussion and discourse
Is the pen mightier than the sword?
Over the past few weeks our Year 9 students have been focusing on conflict and resolution. In both E.P.S. and History lessons they have widened their knowledge and understanding of warfare, terrorism and Just War Principles. So now we invite all our students and you to debate this pertinent topic. Is there another way to settle problems instead of resorting to violence? How far can we humans truly say we have come in civilization if we still resort to blowing each other up to get our own way?
The pen as a weapon
Some modern artists have interpreted the saying to mean the pen is literally a weapon.
Cardinal Richelieu
A portrayal of the Cardinal from the play which is said to have first coined the phrase.
Signing of Treaties
It might not be the pen which strikes the first blow but it often the pen which strikes the last.
The phrase was said to have originally been written by English author Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839 for his play Richelieu.
What are the deeper meanings of the saying?
Many people have analysed this as meaning that the influence of literary works are far wider reaching than acts of violence. Literature can effect the thoughts and feelings of the masses long after it has been written. It can affect the opinions of more people than can the sword. How far do you agree with this analysis?
Campsmount Cooperative Academy
Email: mwi@campsmount.com
Website: www.campsmount.com
Location: Ryecroft Road, Norton, United Kingdom
Phone: 01302700002
Twitter: @MelanieWinter15