Unless a love of virtue light the flame, Satire is, more than those he brands, to blame; He hides behind a magisterial air He own offences, and strips others' bare.

Summary

This quote criticizes the role of satire in society, suggesting that it becomes hypocritical and ineffective unless it arises from a genuine love of virtue. The speaker argues that satirists who do not possess this love of virtue are the ones who should be blamed, not their targets. The way these satirists present themselves with an authoritative and superior attitude allows them to conceal their own faults while publicly exposing others.

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