These principles laid down as in variable rules: that one…
“These principles laid down as in variable rules: that one must pay a card sharper, but need not pay a tailor; that one must never tell a lie to a man, but one may to a woman; that one must never cheat any one, but one may a husband; that one must never pardon an insult, but one may give one and so on. These principles were possibly not reasonable and not good, but they were of unfailing certainty, and so long as he adhered to them, Vronsky felt that his heart was at peace and he could hold his head up.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Vronsky follows rigid, contradictory moral rules for certainty, despite their unreasonable nature.
In simple terms: Following strict, odd rules for peace.
Key Takeaway
Question blind adherence to flawed codes.
Themes
morality
certainty
paradox
peace
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal ethics
- legal systems
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
literary analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- Are your rules truly just?
- How do you balance certainty with compassion?
A Different Perspective
Rigid rules can stifle empathy.