People could put up with being bitten by a wolf but what properly riled them was a bite from a sheep.
In James Joyce's "Ulysses," the quote suggests that people are more forgiving of harshness or aggression if it comes from a formidable source, like a wolf. They expect a certain degree of brutality from something wild and powerful. However, when aggression arises from a seemingly innocuous or harmless source, like a sheep, it provokes greater outrage. This reflects the deep-seated expectations and surprising nature of betrayal when it comes from those considered benign.
This sentiment highlights the complexities of human relationships and societal norms. People often tolerate direct threats as part of life but feel deeply offended when the trust placed in a weaker or more innocent party is broken. It reveals a profound truth about human nature: the dissonance between our assumptions and reality can lead to even greater grievances than overt attacks.
