Apprehension Quote by Joseph Addison
“Our forefathers looked upon nature with more reverence and horror, before the world was enlightened by learning and philosophy, and loved to astonish themselves with the apprehensions of witchcraft, prodigies, charms, and inchantments. There was not a village in England that had not a ghost in it, the church-yards were all haunted, every large common had a circle of fairies belonging to it, and there was scarce a shepherd to be met with who had not seen a spirit.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, No. 311, 1712
People once saw nature as both sacred and terrifying, attributing many unexplained events to supernatural forces.
In simple terms: Nature was revered and feared, leading to many ghost stories and fairy beliefs.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how fear and wonder shape cultural narratives.
Themes
culture
folk belief
supernatural
history
human nature
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
inquisitive
Type
historical
observational
When to use this quote
- rural England
- community storytelling
- religious practices
- folk rituals
- education reforms
Key Concepts
mythology
psychology
social construction
Questions to Reflect On
- How do contemporary myths arise from ancient fears?
- What role does wonder play in modern science?
A Different Perspective
Modern scientific understanding reduces belief in literal ghosts, but symbolic fears persist.
