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To bestow on your fellow men is a Godlike attribute--So…

“To bestow on your fellow men is a Godlike attribute--So indeed it is and as such not one fit for mortality;--the giver, like Adam and Prometheus, must pay the penalty of rising above his nature by being the martyr of his own excellence.” quote by Mary Shelley
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““To bestow on your fellow men is a Godlike attribute--So indeed it is and as such not one fit for mortality;--the giver, like Adam and Prometheus, must pay the penalty of rising above his nature by being the martyr of his own excellence.””

Mary Shelley

About This Quote

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

The act of giving is portrayed as a divine, burdensome gift that elevates the giver beyond ordinary humanity, demanding sacrifice.

In simple terms: Giving is noble but can be a heavy burden.

Key Takeaway

Give generously, accept the cost.

Themes

generosity sacrifice divinity

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • philanthropy
  • mentorship
  • leadership
  • artistic creation

Key Concepts

moral responsibility self‑transcendence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What do you gain from giving?
  • When does generosity become self‑harmful?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing sacrifice may ignore personal limits.

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