We are apt to form romantic and exaggerated notions about the moral innocence of our ancestors. Ages of ignorance and simplicity are thought to be ages of purity. The direct contrary, I believe, is the case...In the middle ages, not only the most flagrant violations of modesty were frequently practised and permitted, but the most infamous vices. Men are less ashamed as they are less polished.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- We romanticize ancestors as morally pure, but history shows many violations and vices, especially in the Middle Ages; men were less ashamed because they were less refined.
- In plain terms
- We idealize the past, yet history reveals widespread immorality, especially in medieval times.
- What can you take from it?
- Question nostalgic myths and recognize the complexity of historical morality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do we romanticize the past?
- How can we balance critique with appreciation?
Another view
Some periods did have genuine moral progress despite flaws.
More from Thomas Warton
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