In "The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890-1914," Barbara W. Tuchman explores the complex social dynamics and tensions in early 20th-century society. She illustrates how societal fears often manifest into collective actions that can be perceived as revenge against perceived threats. This highlights the intricate relationship between fear and societal responses, suggesting that when people feel threatened, they may act out in ways that seek retribution or justice.

Tuchman's insights are exemplified in her quote, "Society's revenge matched its fright," which encapsulates the idea that societal anxieties can lead to a mirrored reaction where fear-driven actions become punitive. The book reflects on the turbulent era leading up to World War I, emphasizing how the interplay of fear and revenge shaped public sentiment and political actions, ultimately foreshadowing the chaos that was to come.