Burdened Quote by Charles Dickens
““The girl's life had been squandered in the streets, and among the most noisome of the stews and dens of London, but there was something of the woman's original nature left in her still; and when she heard a light step approaching the door opposite to that by which she had entered, and thought of the wide contrast which the small room would in another moment contain, she felt burdened with the sense of her own deep shame: and shrunk as though she could scarcely bear the presence of her with whom she had sought this interview.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Great Expectations, Charles Dickens, 1861
A woman feels deep shame when confronting her past and the stark contrast between her current squalor and a fleeting glimpse of dignity.
In simple terms: She is ashamed of her past and feels exposed.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge shame, seek redemption.
Themes
shame
redemption
class
identity
contrast
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
dramatic
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- therapy
- social work
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
social stigma
self perception
urban poverty
Questions to Reflect On
- How does confronting shame affect personal growth?
- What can society do to alleviate such stark contrasts?
A Different Perspective
Shame may not lead to change without support.
