Skip to content

Devil Quote by George Eliot

“Satan was a blunderer ... who made a stupendous failure. If he had succeeded, we should all have been worshipping him, and his portrait would have been more flattering.” quote by George Eliot
Download Open image
“Satan was a blunderer ... who made a stupendous failure. If he had succeeded, we should all have been worshipping him, and his portrait would have been more flattering.”

George Eliot

About This Quote

Source Novel: Adam Bede, 1859

Satan’s failure is portrayed as a catastrophic error; success would have led to worship of a false deity.

In simple terms: Satan’s failure prevented false worship.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the value of humility.

Themes

theology philosophy hubris

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • moral education
  • spiritual reflection
  • literary analysis
  • cultural critique

Key Concepts

religion ethics human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this say about power?
  • How does humility shape belief?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations vary across cultures and religions.

3.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by George Eliot

Explore all 1,492 George Eliot quotes

More Devil quotes

Browse all 4,283 Devil quotes