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Duty Quote by John Fowles

“Duty is but a pot. It holds whatever is put in it, from the greatest evil to the greatest good.” quote by John Fowles
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“Duty is but a pot. It holds whatever is put in it, from the greatest evil to the greatest good.”

John Fowles

About This Quote

Source Novel: The French Lieutenant’s Woman, 1969

Duty is a neutral vessel that reflects the moral quality of the actions placed within it, whether good or evil.

In simple terms: Duty reflects what you put into it.

Key Takeaway

Fill duty with good intentions.

Themes

morality responsibility ethics

Mood

contemplative inspirational

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • public service
  • personal decisions
  • volunteering

Key Concepts

philosophy literature character development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What values guide your sense of duty?
  • Can duty be redefined by intention?
A Different Perspective

Duty can be misused if intentions are unclear.

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