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Princes know themselves to be princes, and are not snobs…

“Princes know themselves to be princes, and are not snobs; besides, they believe themselves to be so far above everything that is not of their blood royal that noblemen and commoners appear, in the depths beneath them, to be practically on a level.” quote by Marcel Proust
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““Princes know themselves to be princes, and are not snobs; besides, they believe themselves to be so far above everything that is not of their blood royal that noblemen and commoners appear, in the depths beneath them, to be practically on a level.””

Marcel Proust

About This Quote

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

Nobility perceives itself as superior, viewing others as beneath them, yet this self‑importance is a form of snobbery.

In simple terms: Nobility sees others as beneath them.

Key Takeaway

Self‑elevated status masks snobbery.

Themes

class snobbery identity perception social hierarchy

Mood

critical ironic

Type

quotation philosophical

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • social class studies
  • character development

Key Concepts

elitism self‑concept

Practical Applications

  • sociology lectures
  • literary criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does self‑perceived superiority affect social interaction?
  • Can true nobility exist without arrogance?
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