--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: that they had never been properly taught…" description: "\"“that they had never been properly taught to govern their inclinations and tempers, by that sense of duty which can alone suffice. They had been instru..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f7b/jane-austen-39_quote_that-they-had-never-been-properly-taught_1855106.jpg" --- # that they had never been properly taught to govern their… ![“that they had never been properly taught to govern their inclinations and tempers, by that sense of duty which can alone suffice. They had been instructed theoretically in their religion, but never required to bring it into daily practice. To be distinguished for elegance and accomplishments—the…” quote by Jane Austen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f7b/jane-austen-39_quote_that-they-had-never-been-properly-taught_1855106.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f7b/jane-austen-39_quote_that-they-had-never-been-properly-taught_1855106.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f7b/jane-austen-39_quote_that-they-had-never-been-properly-taught_1855106.jpg) > ““that they had never been properly taught to govern their inclinations and tempers, by that sense of duty which can alone suffice. They had been instructed theoretically in their religion, but never required to bring it into daily practice. To be distinguished for elegance and accomplishments—the authorised object of their youth—could have had no useful influence that way, no moral effect on the mind. He had meant them to be good, but his cares had been directed to the understanding and manners, not the disposition; and of the necessity of self-denial and humility, he feared they had never heard from any lips that could profit them.”” [Jane Austen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/jane-austen/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. People often learn theory but lack practical self‑discipline, leading to moral weakness despite formal education. **In simple terms:** Theory without practice weakens character. Key Takeaway Cultivate daily habits of humility and self‑control. Themes education morality self‑discipline Mood reflective critical Type philosophical inspirational When to use this quote - parenting - religious instruction - personal development Key Concepts humility duty practicality Questions to Reflect On - How can we embed moral practice into everyday routines? - What habits reinforce humility? 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