Men's indignation, it seems, is more excited by legal wrong than by violent wrong; the first looks like being cheated by an equal, the second like being compelled by a superior.

In this quote, Thucydides explores the nature of indignation and how it is often triggered by different forms of wrongdoing. He argues that men's indignation is more easily stirred by a legal wrong than by a violent wrong. The reason, according to Thucydides, is that a legal wrong feels like an unfair act carried out by an equal, someone who is on the same level. In contrast, a violent wrong, while still egregious, often feels like the actions of a superior forcing their will upon the victim, making it less personally humiliating or unfair.

Thucydides is delving into the psychological aspects of justice and morality, noting that people tend to feel more aggrieved when they perceive that their rights have been violated by someone they view as an equal, as opposed to being harmed by someone in a more powerful position. This insight reflects the broader themes in Thucydides' work, particularly in his famous History of the Peloponnesian War, where he examines human nature and the complexities of power, justice, and conflict. He is highlighting how legal injustice can be seen as an affront to one’s personal dignity, while violence, though deeply troubling, may be understood in terms of power dynamics.

The origin of this quote is from Thucydides, an ancient Greek historian, philosopher, and writer who is best known for his work documenting the Peloponnesian War. His writings reflect his deep understanding of human nature and the interplay between power, politics, and morality. Thucydides often analyzed the psychological and social motivations behind historical events, and this quote is a reflection of his broader theories on justice and personal grievance.

Ultimately, Thucydides’ quote points out the complexities of human emotions in the face of wrongdoing. It suggests that legal injustices are perceived as more personally insulting, as they involve an equal violating the individual's sense of fairness, while violent wrongs, though severe, are often interpreted through the lens of a power imbalance. This reflects the enduring relevance of Thucydides' work in understanding the dynamics of conflict and moral outrage throughout history.