I suppose as long as novels last, and authors aim at…
“I suppose as long as novels last, and authors aim at interesting their public, there must always be in the story a virtuous and gallant hero; a wicked monster, his opposite; and a pretty girl, who finds a champion. Bravery and virtue conquer beauty; and vice, after seeming to triumph through a certain number of pages, is sure to be discomfited in the last volume, when justice overtakes him, and honest folks come by their own.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Stories typically feature clear moral opposites and a satisfying resolution where virtue triumphs over vice.
In simple terms: Heroes, villains, and love interests create moral conflict resolved by justice.
Key Takeaway
Expect good to prevail over evil.
Themes
morality
storytelling
conflict
justice
heroism
Mood
hopeful
dramatic
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- film scripts
- teaching ethics
- personal motivation
Key Concepts
archetypes
narrative structure
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prefer nuanced characters?
- How does this pattern affect expectations?
A Different Perspective
Simplistic binaries may overlook complex human nature.