Alciato's Book of Emblems

Emblem 154

One ought not to wrestle with ghosts

Dying at a blow from the Aeacidean's spear, Hector who had so often conquered his foes, could not restrain his voice, as his enemies taunted him, preparing chains to bind his feet to his chariot: "Pull me apart as you wish - even timid hares pluck out the beard of the lion when his life is gone!"