Conception Quote by A. C. Bradley
“If we are to include the outer and the inner struggle in a conception more definite than that of conflict in general, we must employ some such phrase as 'spiritual force.' This will mean whatever forces act in the human spirit, whether good or evil, whether personal passion or impersonal principle; doubts, desires, scruples, ideas-whatever can animate, shake, possess, and drive a man's soul. [19]In a Shakespearean tragedy some such forces are shown in conflict.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Shakespearean Tragedy Analysis by A. C. Bradley, 1904
Human behavior is driven by a mix of moral and immoral forces, both personal and impersonal, that shape inner conflict.
In simple terms: Inner conflict comes from various forces in the soul.
Recognize and balance these forces.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- creative writing
- therapy
- ethical debate
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify the dominant forces in your life?
- Can you transform a negative force into a positive one?
Not all forces are equally conscious or controllable.