That fellow would vulgarize the day of judgment

That fellow would vulgarize the day of judgment

Douglas Jerrold was a renowned English playwright, humorist, and satirist known for his sharp wit and biting social commentary. He was a master of the bon mot, able to skewer his targets with a single well-crafted phrase. One of his most famous quotes is, “That fellow would vulgarize the day of judgment,” which perfectly encapsulates his disdain for those who lack decorum and respect for the sanctity of important events.

In the context of Jerrold’s work, this quote can be seen as a condemnation of those who would trivialize or diminish the significance of momentous occasions. The day of judgment, in Christian theology, is the final reckoning when all souls will be judged by God. It is a solemn and weighty event, symbolizing the ultimate accountability for one’s actions and beliefs. To vulgarize such a day is to reduce it to something base and common, stripping it of its gravity and importance.

Jerrold’s use of the word “fellow” in this quote suggests a specific target for his criticism – someone who is crass, insensitive, and lacking in moral character. This could refer to a variety of individuals, from politicians who exploit religious beliefs for personal gain to entertainers who make light of serious topics for the sake of a cheap laugh. Jerrold had little patience for those who sought to profit from the misfortune or suffering of others, and he used his wit to expose and ridicule their hypocrisy.