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This is his first punishment, that by the verdict of his own heart no guilty man is acquitted.
Juvenal
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A guilty person cannot escape judgment even if others do not realize their guilt.

This quote by Juvenal highlights the idea that true accountability comes from within oneself. No matter how others perceive or judge an individual, the inner consciousness of guilt and moral responsibility remains an unescapable burden for those who have committed wrongful acts.

Themes

GuiltConscienceJudgmentAccountabilityMoral Responsibility

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about ethics, this quote can emphasize the importance of self-reflection.

More from Juvenal

Revenge is sweeter than life itself. So think fools.
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Poverty is bitter, but it has no harder pang than that it makes men ridiculous.
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All wish to possess knowledge, but few, comparatively speaking, are willing to pay the price.
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A lucky man is rarer than a white crow.
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