To err is human; but contrition felt for the crime…
“To err is human; but contrition felt for the crime distinguishes the virtuous from the wicked.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Acknowledge mistakes and feel genuine remorse to separate moral character from wrongdoing.
In simple terms: Remorse shows virtue.
Cultivate sincere contrition.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Legal judgments
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does genuine remorse affect forgiveness?
- Can remorse exist without action?
Remorse alone may not repair harm.