Discouraged Quote by Dorothy L. Sayers
““The making of miracles to edification was as ardently admired by pious Victorians as it was sternly discouraged by Jesus of Nazareth. Not that the Victorians were unique in this respect. Modern writers also indulge in edifying miracles though they generally prefer to use them to procure unhappy endings, by which piece of thaumaturgy they win the title of realists.””
About This Quote
Victorian society admired miracles for moral edification, while Jesus discouraged them; modern writers use miracles for tragic realism, showing shifting attitudes toward the supernatural.
In simple terms: Victorians valued miracles for moral lessons; modern writers use them for bleak realism.
Key Takeaway
Recognize changing cultural views on miracles.
Themes
miracles
edification
Victorian values
modern literature
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
literary
historical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- creative writing
- film critique
- theological debate
Key Concepts
theology
literary criticism
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do some cultures embrace miracles while others reject them?
- How does the use of miracles affect storytelling?
A Different Perspective
Modern audiences may reject miraculous elements as implausible.
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