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A beautiful person among the Greeks, was thought to betray…

“A beautiful person among the Greeks, was thought to betray by this sign some secret favor of the immortal gods; and we can pardonpride, when a woman possesses such a figure that wherever she stands, or moves, or leaves a shadow on the wall, or sits for a portrait to the artist, she confers a favor…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“A beautiful person among the Greeks, was thought to betray by this sign some secret favor of the immortal gods; and we can pardonpride, when a woman possesses such a figure that wherever she stands, or moves, or leaves a shadow on the wall, or sits for a portrait to the artist, she confers a favor on the world.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

Celebrates the divine inspiration of a beautiful woman, linking her presence to a universal favor.

In simple terms: Beauty can inspire and uplift the world.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and honor inspiring beauty around you.

Themes

aesthetics inspiration divine favor

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • artistic creation
  • social gatherings
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Romanticism symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What qualities beyond looks inspire you?
  • How can you honor inspiration without objectifying?
A Different Perspective

Idealizes beauty, overlooking inner qualities.

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