For my part, I wish, with Mr. Howells, that the literature…
“For my part, I wish, with Mr. Howells, that the literature of the past might be purged of all that is ugly and barbarous in it, although I should object as much as any one to having these great works weakened or falsified.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She wants to remove offensive content from classic works but fears damaging their artistic value.
In simple terms: Remove ugliness but keep greatness.
Key Takeaway
Balance preservation with sensitivity.
Themes
literature
ethics
preservation
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
critical
reflective
When to use this quote
- education curricula
- library collections
- public readings
- book clubs
Key Concepts
censorship
artistic integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we edit without losing meaning?
- What criteria decide what is 'ugly'?
A Different Perspective
Removing content may erase historical context and authorial intent.