Quotation by
Jane Austen
General benevolence, but not general friendship, made a man what he ought to be.
Advertisement
Understanding this quote AI Analysis
Jane Austen is saying that a person should be kind and good to everyone, even if they cannot be close friends with all. She distinguishes between being friendly to all and having deep friendships, emphasizing that kindness is the true measure of a person's character.
More by this author
All quotes by Jane Austen →