Skip to content

Ancient Quote by Mikhail Bulgakov

“Not fooling around, not bothering nobody, just sitting here mending the Primus," said the cat with a hostile frown, "and, moreover, I consider it my duty to warn you that the cat is an ancient, inviolable animal.” quote by Mikhail Bulgakov
Download Open image
“Not fooling around, not bothering nobody, just sitting here mending the Primus," said the cat with a hostile frown, "and, moreover, I consider it my duty to warn you that the cat is an ancient, inviolable animal.”

Mikhail Bulgakov

About This Quote

Source Book: The Master and Margarita, 1967

The cat declares its ancient duty to warn, highlighting the absurdity of assigning moral authority to mythic creatures.

In simple terms: Even fantastical beings claim moral duties, revealing absurdity.

Key Takeaway

Question the seriousness of self‑appointed moral guardians.

Themes

absurdity authority mythology

Mood

satirical philosophical

Type

literary humorous

When to use this quote

  • reading groups
  • creative writing workshops
  • philosophical debates
  • role‑playing games

Key Concepts

moral philosophy literary satire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does assigning moral duty to a cat symbolize?
  • How does satire expose power structures?
A Different Perspective

Some may view the cat’s warning as sincere rather than satirical.

2.9 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Mikhail Bulgakov

Explore all 186 Mikhail Bulgakov quotes

More Ancient quotes

Browse all 2,415 Ancient quotes