Skip to content

Age Quote by George Eliot

“How could a man be satisfied with a decision between such alternatives and under such circumstances? No more than he can be satisfied with his hat, which he's chosen from among such shapes as the resources of the age offer him, wearing it at best with a resignation which is chiefly supported by…” quote by George Eliot
Download Open image
“How could a man be satisfied with a decision between such alternatives and under such circumstances? No more than he can be satisfied with his hat, which he's chosen from among such shapes as the resources of the age offer him, wearing it at best with a resignation which is chiefly supported by comparison.”

George Eliot

About This Quote

Source Novel: Middlemarch by George Eliot, 1871

A person can only be content with the limited choices available, comparing them to a hat selected from the era's options, and accepting it with resignation.

In simple terms: Contentment is limited by available options and comparison.

Key Takeaway

Accept realistic limits and compare wisely.

Themes

contentment choice comparison

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • consumer choices
  • fashion decisions
  • personal satisfaction

Key Concepts

existentialism social constraints

Questions to Reflect On

  • What choices are you comparing?
  • How does comparison shape satisfaction?
A Different Perspective

Resignation may hinder ambition or growth.

4.0 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by George Eliot

Explore all 1,492 George Eliot quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,948 Age quotes