Let us never fear robbers nor murderers. Those are dangers from without, petty dangers. Let us fear ourselves. Prejudices are the real robbers; vices are the real murderers. The great dangers lie within ourselves. What matters is what threatens our head or our purse! Let us think only of that which threatens our soul.
The quote emphasizes that external threats like robbers and murderers are comparatively minor dangers. Hugo suggests that true peril arises from within ourselves, highlighting that our own prejudices and vices can be far more damaging than any physical danger posed by others. This internal struggle can corrupt our moral compass and lead to greater harms.
Furthermore, Hugo urges us to shift our focus from material concerns, such as threats to our finances or safety, to the deeper spiritual threats that can undermine our integrity and character. It reminds us that the real battles we face are often psychological and moral, urging a reflection on our inner selves as the most significant source of danger.
