Nature makes only dumb animals. We owe the fools to society

Nature makes only dumb animals. We owe the fools to society

Honore de Balzac, a renowned French novelist and playwright, once famously said, "Nature makes only dumb animals. We owe the fools to society." This statement reflects Balzac's belief in the power of society to shape and mold individuals, for better or for worse.

In the context of Balzac's works, particularly his magnum opus, "La Comédie Humaine," this quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of human folly and the role that society plays in perpetuating it. Balzac was known for his keen observations of human behavior and his ability to depict the complexities of society in his novels. Through his characters, he explored the ways in which societal norms and expectations can influence individuals to act in foolish or irrational ways.

One of the recurring themes in Balzac's work is the idea that society often values superficial qualities over true intelligence or virtue. In his novel "Lost Illusions," for example, the protagonist, Lucien de Rubempré, is a talented writer who is ultimately undone by his desire for social status and recognition. Lucien's downfall is a result of his willingness to compromise his principles in order to achieve success in the eyes of society.

Similarly, in "Père Goriot," Balzac explores the destructive power of social ambition through the character of Eugène de Rastignac. Rastignac is a young man from the provinces who comes to Paris with dreams of making a name for himself in society. However, as he becomes more entangled in the corrupt world of high society, he loses sight of his moral compass and becomes willing to sacrifice his integrity in pursuit of wealth and power.