Quote by Stendhal (MarieHenri Beyle), Le

A novel is a mirror carried along a high road. At one moment it reflects to your vision the azure skies at another the mire of the puddles at your feet. And the man who carries this mirror in his pack will be accused by you of being immoral! His mirror shews the mire, and you blame the mirror! Rather blame that high road upon which the puddle lies, still more the inspector of roads who allows the water to gather and the puddle to form.

A novel is a mirror carried along a high road. At one moment

Summary

This quote by French author Stendhal suggests that a novel serves as a reflection of reality, capable of highlighting both the beautiful and ugly aspects of life. The mirror represents the novel, which presents different perspectives and experiences to the reader. Stendhal argues that blaming the author for depicting a negative aspect of society is misguided; instead, the blame should be directed towards the flawed conditions and individuals responsible for creating those negative circumstances. The quote implies that novels have the power to expose societal issues and should not be criticized for doing so.

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By Stendhal (MarieHenri Beyle), Le

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