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...and we have so far improved upon the custom of Adam and…

“...and we have so far improved upon the custom of Adam and Eve, that we generally furnish forth our feasts with a portion of some delicate calf or lamb, whose unspotted innocence entitles them to the happiness of becoming our sustenance.” quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
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“...and we have so far improved upon the custom of Adam and Eve, that we generally furnish forth our feasts with a portion of some delicate calf or lamb, whose unspotted innocence entitles them to the happiness of becoming our sustenance.”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

About This Quote

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

He comments on humanity’s progress in domesticating animals for food, noting the moral irony of consuming innocent creatures.

In simple terms: We eat animals once seen as pure.

Key Takeaway

Consider the ethics of food choices.

Themes

ethics food civilization morality

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • dinner planning
  • ethical sourcing
  • vegetarianism

Key Concepts

animal rights cultural tradition culinary history

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you think eating meat is morally acceptable?
  • How does cultural tradition influence your diet?
A Different Perspective

Some view animal consumption as natural, not immoral.

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