Meaning: This quote by Benjamin Disraeli, a 19th-century British statesman and novelist, reflects the Victorian-era attitude towards public expressions of emotions. In this quote, Disraeli advocates for individuals to keep their gloom or sadness to themselves rather than expressing it openly in society. He criticizes those who "go croaking about society" or appear as if they are stifling grief in public. Disraeli's words convey a belief in the importance of maintaining a certain decorum and composure in public settings, even in the face of personal struggles or sorrow.

During the Victorian era, there was a strong emphasis on propriety and the repression of emotions in public. This period was characterized by strict social norms and expectations, particularly regarding the behavior and conduct of individuals in social settings. Expressing negative emotions such as gloom or grief openly was often considered a breach of decorum and was discouraged. Disraeli's quote reflects this societal attitude, urging individuals to keep their personal struggles private and not burden others with their negative emotions.

The quote also touches on the idea of individual responsibility for managing one's emotions and demeanor. By advising individuals to "keep to himself" if they are gloomy, Disraeli suggests that it is the individual's responsibility to regulate their emotional expressions and not impose their negative feelings on others. This aligns with the Victorian belief in personal restraint and self-discipline, as well as the idea that one's emotional state should not disrupt the social harmony.

Moreover, Disraeli's use of the word "croaking" conveys a sense of disapproval towards those who openly express their grievances or complaints about society. The term "croaking" implies a sense of persistent, grating negativity, and it suggests that such expressions of gloom or discontent are unwelcome or burdensome to others. This reflects the Victorian aversion to public displays of dissatisfaction or discontent, as it was seen as disruptive to the established social order and harmony.

The phrase "looking as if he stifled grief" also carries significant meaning. It suggests that even the appearance of suppressing one's emotions in public is undesirable. This speaks to the Victorian emphasis on maintaining a composed and untroubled outward appearance, regardless of one's internal emotional state. The idea that one should not even appear to be stifling grief underscores the expectation for individuals to present a facade of cheerfulness and contentment in social settings, regardless of their true feelings.

In summary, Disraeli's quote encapsulates the Victorian-era attitudes towards public expressions of emotions, emphasizing the importance of personal restraint, composure, and the maintenance of social harmony. It reflects the societal expectation for individuals to keep their negative emotions private and not burden others with their personal struggles. Additionally, it underscores the Victorian aversion to public displays of discontent or grief, highlighting the emphasis on maintaining a facade of composure and cheerfulness in public settings.