“Yet some feelings, unallied to the dross of human nature, beat even in these rugged bosoms.”
Mary Shelley, in this quote, is discussing the idea that even in the most hardened and rough individuals, there are still tender and genuine emotions present. This quote speaks to the complexity of human nature and the depth of emotions that can exist within every person, regardless of their outward appearance or demeanor. It serves as a reminder that we should not judge others based solely on their exterior, as there is often more to a person than meets the eye.
In this quote by Mary Shelley, she delves into the complexity of human emotions, suggesting that even in the toughest of individuals, there lies a capacity for deep and profound feelings. This statement holds modern relevance as it reminds us that no matter how hardened or tough a person may appear on the outside, there is always a possibility for vulnerability and emotion underneath the surface. It serves as a reminder to consider the depth and complexity of human nature in our interactions and relationships.
In this quote by Mary Shelley, she reflects on how even the roughest and toughest of individuals can still harbor deep and complex emotions. This highlights the idea that beneath the surface, there is often more to a person than meets the eye.
In Mary Shelley's quote, she suggests that even the most rugged individuals can experience feelings beyond what is commonly associated with humanity. Consider the following questions to reflect on this idea:
“The different accidents of life are not so changeable as the feelings of human nature.”
“Even broken in spirit as he is, no one can feel more deeply than he does the beauties of nature. The starry sky, the sea, and every sight afforded by these wonderful regions, seems still to have the power of elevating his soul from earth. Such a man has a double existence: he may suffer misery, and be overwhelmed by disappointments; yet, when he has retired into himself, he will be like a celestial spirit that has a halo around him, within whose circle no grief or folly ventures.”
“Farewell! I leave you, and in you the last of humankind whom these eyes will ever behold. Farewell, Frankenstein! If thou wert yet alive and yet cherished a desire of revenge against me, it would be better satiated in my life than in my destruction. But it was not so; thou didst seek my extinction, that I might not cause greater wretchedness; and if yet, in some mode unknown to me, thou hadst not ceased to think and feel, thou wouldst not desire against me a vengeance greater than that which I feel. Blasted as thou wert, my agony was still superior to thine, for the bitter sting of remorse will not cease to rankle in my wounds until death shall close them forever.”
“Yet from whom has not that rude hand rent away some dear connexion; and why should I describe a sorrow which all have felt, and must feel? The time at length arrives, when grief is rather an indulgence than a necessity; and the smile that plays upon the lips, although it may be deemed a sacrilege, is not banished.”
“He is an Englishman, and in the midst of national and professional prejudices, unsoftened by cultivation, retains some of the noblest endowments of humanity.”
“The fallen angel becomes a malignant devil. Yet even that enemy of God and man had friends and associates in his desolation; I am alone.”