Barricade Quote by Victor Hugo
““Revolutionists are accused of sowing fear abroad. Every barricade seems a crime. Their theories are incriminated, their aim suspected, their ulterior motive is feared, their conscience denounced. They are reproached with raising, erecting, and heaping up, against the reigning social state, a mass of miseries, of griefs, of iniquities, of wrongs, of despairs, and of tearing from the lowest depths blocks of shadow in order therein to embattle themselves and to combat. People shout to them: “You are tearing up the pavements of hell!” They might reply: “That is because our barricade is made of good intentions.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Les Misérables, 1862
Revolutionaries are demonized for challenging the status quo, yet their actions stem from good intentions to fight oppression.
In simple terms: Rebels are labeled dangerous but aim for justice.
Key Takeaway
Recognize motives behind dissent.
Themes
revolution
oppression
justice
fear
authority
Mood
critical
hopeful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- protests
- policy reform
- activism
- media coverage
- public debate
Key Concepts
political theory
social change
ethical justification
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- Why are rebels seen as threats?
- How can good intentions be distinguished from harmful actions?
A Different Perspective
Violence can undermine moral legitimacy.
