The nineteenth was the first century of human sympathy…
““The nineteenth was the first century of human sympathy, -- the age when half wonderingly we began to descry in others that transfigured spark of divinity which we call Myself; when clodhoppers and peasants, and tramps and thieves, and millionaires and -- sometimes -- Negroes, became throbbing souls whose warm pulsing life touched us so nearly that we half gasped with surprise, crying, "Thou too! Hast Thou seen Sorrow and the dull waters of Hopelessness? Hast Thou known Life?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Du Bois describes a new era where people of all classes and races recognize shared humanity and suffering, feeling empathy for each other's pain.
In simple terms: People began to feel empathy across all social groups.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and honor the shared humanity in everyone.
Themes
empathy
humanity
social consciousness
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- community building
- social justice work
- interfaith dialogue
- education on empathy
Key Concepts
shared suffering
recognition of divinity
universal compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we foster empathy for those we consider different?
- What barriers prevent us from seeing shared humanity?
A Different Perspective
Some may resist seeing divinity in those deemed “other,” limiting empathy.