Meaning: The quote "A love for humanity came over me, and watered and fertilised the fields of my inner world which had been lying fallow, and this love of humanity vented itself in a vast compassion" by Georg Brandes, the Danish critic, and scholar, encapsulates the transformative power of love and compassion for humanity. This profound statement reflects the profound impact that empathy and care for others can have on an individual's inner world, leading to a deep sense of compassion and understanding for the human experience.

Georg Brandes was a prominent figure in the Scandinavian literary and cultural scene during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a critic, he was known for his progressive and liberal views, and his work played a significant role in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of his time. Brandes was a proponent of realism in literature and an advocate for social and political change, often challenging the status quo through his writings and lectures.

In the quote, Brandes describes a profound personal transformation that occurred within him, triggered by a newfound love for humanity. The metaphor of "watering and fertilizing the fields of my inner world which had been lying fallow" vividly illustrates the rejuvenating and nurturing effect of this love on his inner being. The imagery of barren fields coming to life paints a picture of renewal and growth, suggesting that this love for humanity revitalized and enriched his inner world, which had previously been dormant and unproductive.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes that this love of humanity manifested itself in the form of "vast compassion." Here, Brandes conveys the expansive and all-encompassing nature of his compassion, indicating that his love for humanity extended beyond personal feelings and encompassed a broader, more profound understanding of the collective human experience. This expression of "vast compassion" suggests a deep empathy and concern for the well-being of others, transcending individual boundaries and reaching out to the broader community of humanity.

The significance of this quote lies in its portrayal of the transformative power of love and compassion. It highlights the profound impact that caring for others can have on an individual's inner world, leading to a more profound understanding of the human experience and a greater capacity for empathy. Brandes's words resonate with the universal truth that love and compassion are fundamental to human connection and the cultivation of a more compassionate and understanding society.

In conclusion, Georg Brandes's quote encapsulates the transformative power of love and compassion for humanity, illustrating the profound impact that empathy and care for others can have on an individual's inner world. Through his evocative imagery and powerful expression of "vast compassion," Brandes conveys the rejuvenating and nurturing effect of love for humanity, emphasizing the universal significance of empathy and understanding in fostering a more compassionate and connected world.