Quote by William Makepeace Thackeray

If, in looking at the lives of princes, courtiers, men of rank and fashion, we must perforce depict them as idle, profligate, and criminal, we must make allowances for the rich men's failings, and recollect that we, too, were very likely indolent and voluptuous, had we no motive for work, a mortal's natural taste for pleasure, and the daily temptation of a large income. What could a great peer, with a great castle and park, and a great fortune, do but be splendid and idle?

If, in looking at the lives of princes, courtiers, men of ra

Summary

This quote suggests that when we observe the lives of wealthy and powerful individuals who live a lifestyle of luxury and excess, we should not be too quick to judge or condemn them. Instead, we should consider that if we were in their position, with no need for work, the allure of pleasure, and a significant income, we too might succumb to idleness and indulgence. The quote highlights the human tendency to pursue pleasure and acknowledges that individuals with great wealth might naturally be inclined to live a life of leisure and extravagance given such circumstances.

Topics

Aristocracy

By William Makepeace Thackeray

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