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You know the proverb, Mr. Hale, 'set a beggar on…

“You know the proverb, Mr. Hale, 'set a beggar on horseback, and he'll ride to the devil' - well, some of these early manufacturers did ride to the devil in a magnificent style - crushing human bone and flesh beneath their horses' hoofs without remorse.” quote by Elizabeth Gaskell
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““You know the proverb, Mr. Hale, 'set a beggar on horseback, and he'll ride to the devil' - well, some of these early manufacturers did ride to the devil in a magnificent style - crushing human bone and flesh beneath their horses' hoofs without remorse.””

Elizabeth Gaskell

About This Quote

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

Industrialists who exploit workers can cause great suffering, likened to a beggar riding a horse to the devil.

In simple terms: Exploiting workers leads to suffering.

Key Takeaway

Beware unchecked industrial power.

Themes

exploitation industrialization class conflict

Mood

critical somber

Type

cautionary social commentary

When to use this quote

  • factory management
  • labor rights
  • corporate ethics
  • social reform

Key Concepts

capitalism human cost ethical responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can workers protect themselves?
  • What responsibilities do industrialists have?
A Different Perspective

Power can be checked by regulation and collective action.

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