Contemptuous Quote by Leo Tolstoy
““The chief reason why the prince was so particularly disagreeable to Vronsky was that he could not help seeing himself in him. And what he saw in this mirror did not gratify his self-esteem. He was a very stupid and very self-satisfied and very healthy and very well-washed man, and nothing else... He was equable and not cringing with his superiors, was free and ingratiating in his behavior with his equals, and was contemptuously indulgent with his inferiors... for this prince he was an inferior, and his contemptuous and indulgent attitude to him revolted him.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, 1877
The prince feels intense dislike because he sees his own flaws reflected in Vronsky, threatening his inflated self‑image.
In simple terms: Seeing oneself in another can provoke resentment.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and manage ego‑driven reactions.
Themes
ego
self‑esteem
reflection
class
resentment
Mood
irritated
reflective
Type
observational
analytical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace hierarchy
- social gatherings
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
psychology
social comparison
identity
class dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you react when you see your own flaws in others?
- What strategies can reduce ego‑driven contempt?
A Different Perspective
The analysis may oversimplify complex interpersonal dynamics.
