Skip to content

Vice is a monster of so frightful mien As to be hated…

“Vice is a monster of so frightful mien As to be hated needs but to be seen; Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, We first endure, then pity, then embrace.” quote by Alexander Pope
Download Open image
“Vice is a monster of so frightful mien As to be hated needs but to be seen; Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, We first endure, then pity, then embrace.”

Alexander Pope

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Vice is a hideous force that becomes tolerable through repeated exposure, leading to pity and acceptance.

In simple terms: Repeated exposure makes evil seem normal.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and confront harmful habits early.

Themes

morality human nature psychology

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • political rhetoric
  • media consumption

Key Concepts

vices desensitization acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does familiarity affect our judgment of wrongdoing?
  • What steps can prevent acceptance of harmful behavior?
A Different Perspective

Even familiarized can be dangerous if left unchecked.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Alexander Pope

Explore all 850 Alexander Pope quotes

More Embrace quotes

Browse all 3,428 Embrace quotes