De mortuis

 

De mortuis

When a person dies who has spent much time in the public eye and is a well-known personality, it is commonplace for remarks to be made. Supporters of the dead person will say pleasant things, while those who disliked the person, their principles or their values may find their feelings so enlivened or enraged that they will make egregious comments.

Ann Widdecombe, a strong-willed and outspoken UK politician, was murdered in her home two days ago. Already the knives are out in some quarters. That is despicable, for, as some would say, ‘She’s not even cold in her grave yet.’

‘Do not speak ill of the dead’ is a cautionary advice. It suggests that respect should be given to all, certainly immediately after death, for the dead person cannot defend him or herself. It is also intended to try to ensure that surviving family and friends are spared yet more pain and grief following the death of a loved one.

When a decent interval has passed, however that may be defined, criticism may be expressed.

Everyone has been born human, with all the frailty and ill-judgements we all can exhibit. Everyone is a son or daughter, perhaps with friends to admire and love us. Some will arouse dislike, disapproval, contempt, even hatred, maybe without justification, but the caution remains.

The aphorism is a loose translation of the Latin ‘de mortuis nil nisi bonum dicendum est’ which originated with the 6^th century Greek philosopher, Chilon of Sparta, one of the Seven Sages of Ancient Greece.