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I do not doubt that if the Paradisal man could now appear…

“I do not doubt that if the Paradisal man could now appear among us, we should regard him as an utter savage, a creature to be exploited or, at best, patronised. Only one or two, and those the holiest among us, would glance a second time at the naked, shaggy-bearded, slow spoken creature: but they…” quote by C. S. Lewis
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“I do not doubt that if the Paradisal man could now appear among us, we should regard him as an utter savage, a creature to be exploited or, at best, patronised. Only one or two, and those the holiest among us, would glance a second time at the naked, shaggy-bearded, slow spoken creature: but they, after a few minutes, would fall at his feet.”

C. S. Lewis

About This Quote

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

He imagines a savage being among us, noting that only the holiest might see beyond its appearance, while most would exploit or patronize it.

In simple terms: A savage among us would be exploited, except by the truly holy.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the humanity beyond outward appearances.

Themes

prejudice humanity exploitation

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • social integration
  • religious tolerance
  • ethical leadership
  • human rights

Key Concepts

theology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to truly see another person?
  • How can we avoid exploiting those who seem different?
A Different Perspective

Even the holy may still be swayed by fear.

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