Abash’d the Devil stood, And felt how awful goodness is.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote captures a profound moment of self-realization and transformation. The imagery here is vivid: the Devil, a symbol of evil and corruption, stands abashed—meaning he is overwhelmed with shame or embarrassment. This is a striking contrast to his usual demeanor, where he is often depicted as bold and unrepentant.
The essence of the quote lies in the Devil’s encounter with the concept of goodness. Historically, the Devil represents rebellion, deceit, and malevolence. In many religious and philosophical traditions, evil is characterized by a fundamental opposition to the virtues and moral principles that goodness upholds. To witness goodness in its purest form is, therefore, to confront something deeply alien and, in many ways, intimidating.
The Devil’s reaction—feeling how “awful” goodness is—suggests a deep, almost paralyzing awe. The word “awful” here doesn’t mean terrible in the modern sense but rather something so profoundly impressive that it can evoke a sense of dread or reverence. It’s as though the Devil is faced with the undeniable truth of goodness’s power and purity, which starkly contrasts with his own nature. This realization is so intense that it disrupts his usual self-assuredness and forces him to confront the reality of his own flaws and limitations.
In a broader sense, this quote speaks to the transformative power of goodness and virtue. It implies that encountering true goodness can be a profound experience, even for those who embody its opposite. It challenges the Devil’s entire existence and makes him feel the weight of his own malevolence in contrast to the inherent purity of goodness. This moment of recognition can be a pivotal turning point, suggesting that the confrontation with goodness has the power to evoke self-reflection and potentially inspire change, even in the most hardened hearts.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Abash’d the Devil stood, And felt how awful goodness is.” is often attributed to John Milton (Quotes). John Milton, a major English poet, wrote epic works like “Paradise Lost,” exploring themes of human nature and morality.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
