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Duty Quote by Charles Dickens

“Duty, Tattycoram. Begin it early, and do it well; and there is no antecedent to it, in any origin or station, that will tell against us with the Almighty, or with ourselves.” quote by Charles Dickens
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““Duty, Tattycoram. Begin it early, and do it well; and there is no antecedent to it, in any origin or station, that will tell against us with the Almighty, or with ourselves.””

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Novel: "The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby", 1839

Duty must be started early, done well, and defended against any opposition.

In simple terms: Begin duty early and do it well.

Key Takeaway

Commit to duty from the start.

Themes

morality duty perseverance

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

literary ethical

When to use this quote

  • career beginnings
  • family obligations
  • public service

Key Concepts

Victorian ethics personal responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “no antecedent” imply?
  • How can we balance duty with self‑care?
A Different Perspective

Rigid duty can suppress personal freedom.

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