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I would like you to teach [the orcs] civilised behaviour," said Ladyship coldly. He appeared to consider this. "Yes of course, I think that would be quite possible," he said. "And who would you send to teach the humans?
Terry Pratchett
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote highlights the irony of teaching civility while questioning the lack of it in humanity itself.

In this quote from Terry Pratchett, the speaker is addressing the concept of civilized behavior and the irony of who is considered civilized in the first place. By suggesting that orcs could learn civilized behavior, it raises questions about the prejudices we hold toward others and calls into doubt the civility of humans who may be in need of instruction themselves. It confronts the idea that civility is not inherent but learned, and challenges the reader to reflect on their notions of 'us' versus 'them'.

Themes

CivilizationBehaviorIronyPrejudiceHumanity

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on social behavior at a community meeting.

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