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In his savage, untutored breast new emotions were…

“In his savage, untutored breast new emotions were stirring. He could not fathom them. He wondered why he felt so great an interest in these people—why he had gone to such pains to save the three men. But he did not wonder why he had torn Sabor from the tender flesh of the strange girl. Surely the…” quote by Edgar Rice Burroughs
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““In his savage, untutored breast new emotions were stirring. He could not fathom them. He wondered why he felt so great an interest in these people—why he had gone to such pains to save the three men. But he did not wonder why he had torn Sabor from the tender flesh of the strange girl. Surely the men were stupid and ridiculous and cowardly. Even Manu, the monkey, was more intelligent than they. If these were creatures of his own kind he was doubtful if his past pride in blood was warranted. But the girl, ah—that was a different matter. He did not reason here. He knew that she was created to be protected, and that he was created to protect her””

Edgar Rice Burroughs

About This Quote

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

A primitive man struggles with new emotions, recognizing his protective instinct toward a vulnerable being despite his confusion about others.

In simple terms: He feels protective love for the girl, even if he cannot explain it.

Key Takeaway

Trust innate protective instincts when faced with the unknown.

Themes

instinct protection conflict identity empathy

Mood

thoughtful conflicted

Type

narrative philosophical

When to use this quote

  • survival
  • leadership
  • parental care

Key Concepts

anthropology psychology mythology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we protect some while judging others?
  • How do new emotions reshape our identity?
A Different Perspective

His instinct may clash with rational decisions, causing moral dilemmas.

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