Death Quote by Jean-Paul Sartre
““Undoubtedly, on his death bed, at that moment when, ever since Socrates, it has been proper to pronounce certain elevated words, he told his wife, as one of my uncles told his, who had watched beside him for twelve nights, "I do not thank you, Therese; you have only done your duty.””
About This Quote
Source Play: No Exit, 1944
A dying person acknowledges that the speaker's actions were simply fulfilling a moral obligation, not an act of gratitude.
In simple terms: He says his duty was done, not a favor.
Recognize duty versus gratitude.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- end-of-life conversations
- ethical reflections
- caregiver support
- personal closure
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you separate duty from gratitude?
- How does this affect grieving?
It may overlook deeper emotional needs beyond duty.