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Attorney general Quote by Charles Dickens

“The Judge, whose eyes had gone in the general direction, recalled them, leaned back in his seat, and looked steadily at the man whose life was in his hand, as Mr. Attorney-General rose to spin the rope, grind the axe, and hammer the nails into the scaffold.” quote by Charles Dickens
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““The Judge, whose eyes had gone in the general direction, recalled them, leaned back in his seat, and looked steadily at the man whose life was in his hand, as Mr. Attorney-General rose to spin the rope, grind the axe, and hammer the nails into the scaffold.””

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Novel: Great Expectations, 1861

A judge contemplates the gravity of deciding a man's fate, emphasizing the weight of authority.

In simple terms: The judge reflects on his power over life and death.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the responsibility of authority.

Themes

justice authority morality decision life and death

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

literary dramatic

When to use this quote

  • courtroom sentencing
  • executive decisions
  • military command

Key Concepts

judicial burden ethical deliberation power of law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle decisions that affect others' lives?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse of power?
A Different Perspective

Authority can be misused or cause moral conflict.

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