Skip to content

Greatest man Quote by George Eliot

“I protest against any absolute conclusion, any prejudice derived from Mrs. Cadwallader's contempt for a neighboring clergyman's alleged greatness of soul, or Sir James Chettam's poor opinion of his rival's legs,—from Mr. Brooke's failure to elicit a companion's ideas, or from Celia's criticism of…” quote by George Eliot
Download Open image
““I protest against any absolute conclusion, any prejudice derived from Mrs. Cadwallader's contempt for a neighboring clergyman's alleged greatness of soul, or Sir James Chettam's poor opinion of his rival's legs,—from Mr. Brooke's failure to elicit a companion's ideas, or from Celia's criticism of a middle-aged scholar's personal appearance. I am not sure that the greatest man of his age, if ever that solitary superlative existed, could escape these unfavorable reflections of himself in various small mirrors; and even Milton, looking for his portrait in a spoon, must submit to have the facial angle of a bumpkin. Moreover,””

George Eliot

About This Quote

The speaker mocks how personal biases and trivial judgments shape opinions about others.

In simple terms: People judge others based on petty prejudices.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question your own biases.

Themes

philosophy psychology social critique human nature bias

Mood

critical ironic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • personal introspection
  • social commentary

Key Concepts

subjectivity prejudice self‑reflection perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What biases influence your view of others?
  • How can we look beyond superficial judgments?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on trivial details can obscure true character.

4.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by George Eliot

Explore all 1,492 George Eliot quotes

More Greatest man quotes

Browse all 103 Greatest man quotes