Skip to content

Calamity Quote by John Dryden

“We can never be grieved for their miseries who are thoroughly wicked, and have thereby justly called their calamities on themselves.” quote by John Dryden
Download Open image
“We can never be grieved for their miseries who are thoroughly wicked, and have thereby justly called their calamities on themselves.”

John Dryden

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Moral Philosophy of Wickedness, 1695

Wicked individuals bring suffering upon themselves, so they deserve their miseries.

In simple terms: Wicked people cause their own suffering.

Key Takeaway

Consider personal responsibility.

Themes

morality justice karma

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical literary

When to use this quote

  • Legal judgments
  • personal accountability
  • moral education

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy retributive justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is suffering always self‑inflicted?
  • How do we balance justice and compassion?
A Different Perspective

May ignore systemic factors.

2.4 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by John Dryden

Explore all 520 John Dryden quotes

More Calamity quotes

Browse all 442 Calamity quotes