The great are deceived if they imagine they have…
““The great are deceived if they imagine they have appropriated ambition and vanity to themselves. These notable qualities flourish as notably in a country church and churchyard as in the drawing room or in the closet. Schemes have indeed been laid in the vestry, which would hardly disgrace the conclave. Here is a ministry, and here is an opposition. Here are plots and circumventions, parties and factions equal to those which are to be found in courts. Nor are the women here less practiced in the highest feminine arts than their fair superiors in quality and fortune. Here are prudes and coquettes; here are dressing and ogling, falsehood, envy, malice, scandal -- in short everything which is common to the most splendid assembly or politest circle.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human vices appear everywhere, from humble churches to lofty courts, showing that ambition, vanity, and intrigue are universal.
In simple terms: Bad behavior exists in all social levels.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and guard against hypocrisy.
Themes
hypocrisy
social critique
human nature
Mood
cynical
observational
Type
satirical
critical
When to use this quote
- church gatherings
- courtrooms
- family events
- political meetings
- social clubs
Key Concepts
ambition
vanity
politics
gender roles
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see similar patterns in modern institutions?
- How can we foster authenticity over pretense?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overgeneralize and ignore genuine virtue in some settings.