# XXXIV: The Saint and the Hero explained — Verses on Various Occasions

> Chapter companion for Verses on Various Occasions by John Henry Newman.

## What happens

The narrator reflects on hearing praise of an aged saint, but upon meeting him, is initially offended by his simplicity and lowly diligence. He learns that the saint's praise is not the hero's praise, and resolves not to malign Heaven's humblest ways nor spurn its least boon.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Humility

The saint's lowly diligence and simple mien contrast with the hero's praise, emphasizing humility over worldly acclaim.

### The Role of the Saint

The poem distinguishes the saint's quiet, humble ways from the hero's more visible praise, exploring the true nature of sanctity.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The narrator who hears the saint's praise, meets him, and learns a lesson about humility.

### Some lonely Saint

The aged saint whose name and deeds are praised, but whose simple mien and lowly diligence initially offend the narrator.

## Key lines

> The Saint’s is not the Hero’s praise;⁠— This I have found, and learn Nor to malign Heaven’s humblest ways, Nor its least boon to spurn.

The saint does not receive the same kind of acclaim as a hero; I have discovered this and now understand not to criticize God's humble methods nor reject even the smallest gift from Heaven.

_The narrator's key realization about the difference between saintly and heroic virtue._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters/xxxiv-the-saint-and-the-hero
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters