Question:

Explain with reference to the context:
“Every virtue requires today
A fancy dress; the cassock is
The priests’ main virtue, the clever
Politician dons a saint’s mean
Apparel.”

Show Hint

Reference-to-context answers should clearly include source, situation, and deeper meaning of the lines.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

Solution and Explanation

The poet is criticizing modern society where people pretend to be virtuous only outwardly. He highlights the hypocrisy of religious leaders and politicians who wear the mask of morality for personal gain.
Explanation:
The poet suggests that true virtue has disappeared and is replaced by false appearances. Priests and politicians pretend to be moral by wearing symbolic clothes, while lacking genuine honesty and integrity. The lines expose the hollow and artificial nature of modern virtues.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top Questions on Poetry

View More Questions

Questions Asked in PSEB exam

View More Questions