"Many heads go to make the mob, and in each of them are eyes for malice to use and a tongue for detraction to wag. If a single ill report spread, it casts a blemish on your fair fame, and if it clings to you with a nickname, your reputation is in danger. Generally it is some salient defect or ridiculous trait that gives rise to the rumours. At times these are malicious additions of private envy to general distrust. For there are wicked tongues that ruin a great reputation more easily by a witty sneer than by a direct accusation. It is easy to get into bad repute, because it easy to believe evil of any one: it is not easy to clear yourself. The wise accordingly avoid these mischances, guarding against vulgar scandal with sedulous vigilance. It is far easier to prevent than to rectify." - Balthasar Gracian's "The Art of Worldly Wisdom"
Propelled by a blind vindictiveness, the mob tears down, sets ablaze, destroys, kills all that which it can lay its hands on. Steer clear lest its gaze fall on you. Nobody is invulnerable in the face of the mob. All it takes is a hint of weakness, a suspicion of pride, a suggestion of offense, a single absonant note, then the mob seizes upon you and drags you through the mud. Reputations are delicate things. Woe betide him who has only his reputation standing between himself and oblivion. Alas that is the tragedy of history. All the great and heroes will be forgotten, even the immortal gods are not eternal.