Books Quote by Mary Shelley
““Plutarch taught me high thoughts; he elevated me above the wretched sphere of my own reflections, to admire and love the heroes of past ages. Many things I read surpassed my understanding and experience. I had a very confused knowledge of kingdoms, wide extents of country, mighty rivers, and boundless seas. This book developed new and mightier scenes of action. I read of men concerned in public affairs, governing or massacring their species. I felt the greatest ardour for virtue rise within me, and abhorrence for vice.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, 1818
Reading heroic histories inspires admiration for virtue and disgust for vice, expanding one’s imagination beyond personal experience.
In simple terms: Stories of heroes shape moral aspirations.
Key Takeaway
Seek inspiration from past exemplars.
Themes
literature
virtue
inspiration
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- personal growth
- creative writing
Key Concepts
heroic archetypes
moral development
historical imagination
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues do you emulate?
- How do heroes influence your actions?
A Different Perspective
Some may view such admiration as escapism.
