It is the crime not the scaffold which is the disgrace.

Summary

This quote, often attributed to French writer Pierre Corneille, reflects the idea that the true disgrace lies not in the punishment or consequences of a wrongdoing, such as the scaffold, but in the actual act committed – in this case, the crime. It suggests that the shame and dishonor associated with immoral or unlawful actions outweigh any public punishment. Essentially, the quote emphasizes the importance of personal integrity and the inherent moral consequences of one's choices, highlighting that the true disgrace lies in the act itself rather than its outward manifestations.

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