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Devil Quote by William Makepeace Thackeray

“[As they say in the old legends]Before a man goes to the devil himself, he sends plenty of other souls thither.” quote by William Makepeace Thackeray
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“[As they say in the old legends]Before a man goes to the devil himself, he sends plenty of other souls thither.”

William Makepeace Thackeray

About This Quote

Source Literature: The History of Pendennis, 1848

Before confronting great evil, people often sacrifice many others to achieve their aims.

In simple terms: People send others to danger before facing the devil themselves.

Key Takeaway

Beware of using others as pawns.

Themes

power morality manipulation

Mood

cautious critical

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • political campaigns
  • war
  • corporate strategy
  • personal ambition

Key Concepts

ethical compromise instrumentalization

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever justified to sacrifice others for a cause?
  • What are the hidden costs of such sacrifices?
A Different Perspective

It can be justified as necessary sacrifice.

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