Skip to content

Devil Quote by Charles Dickens

“When the Devil goeth about like a roaring lion, he goeth about in a shape by which few but savages and hunters are attracted. But, when he is trimmed, smoothed, and varnished, according to the mode: when he is aweary of vice, and aweary of virtue, used up as to brimstone, and used up as to bliss…” quote by Charles Dickens
Download Open image
““When the Devil goeth about like a roaring lion, he goeth about in a shape by which few but savages and hunters are attracted. But, when he is trimmed, smoothed, and varnished, according to the mode: when he is aweary of vice, and aweary of virtue, used up as to brimstone, and used up as to bliss; then, whether he take to the serving out of red tape, or to the kindling of red fire, he is the very Devil.””

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Book: The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens, 1836

The devil appears attractive when disguised as something smooth and polished, but remains dangerous regardless of appearance.

In simple terms: Even when refined, evil stays harmful.

Key Takeaway

Beware hidden dangers behind appealing facades.

Themes

deception evil appearance danger morality

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • political rhetoric
  • personal relationships
  • media consumption

Key Concepts

philosophy theology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discern true character behind charm?
  • What safeguards can you set against deceptive allure?
A Different Perspective

Even polished appearances can mask harmful intent.

3.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Charles Dickens

Explore all 2,310 Charles Dickens quotes

More Devil quotes

Browse all 3,173 Devil quotes