Well, listen a moment, Monsieur Mayor; I have often been severe in my life towards others. It was just. I did right. Now if I were not severe towards myself, all I have justly done would become injustice. Should I spare myself more than others? No. What! if I should be prompt only to punish others and not myself, I should be a wretched indeed! - Javert to M. Madeleine

Summary

In this quote from Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," Javert, a strict and relentless law enforcement officer, reflects on his life of being severe towards others. He asserts that his harshness was justified and necessary for maintaining justice. However, Javert recognizes that if he does not hold himself to the same standard, his actions would be hypocritical. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and the need to treat himself as sternly as he treats others, as this is integral to maintaining a sense of righteousness and fairness in his pursuit of justice.

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