Meaning: This thought-provoking quote by Graham Greene, the renowned British playwright, delves into the complex nature of morality and human behavior. The quote challenges the conventional notions of good and evil, particularly in the context of murder. Greene suggests that society often views a murderer as a monstrous figure, someone who deviates from the norms of morality and decency. However, in the eyes of the murderer himself, he may see his actions as those of an ordinary man. This juxtaposition of societal perception and self-perception raises compelling questions about the nature of morality, the human psyche, and the concept of goodness.

The first part of the quote addresses the societal perspective on murderers. Greene highlights the common perception that murderers are regarded as almost monstrous by the conventional world. This reflects the deeply ingrained societal aversion to murder and the moral repugnance it elicits. Murder is often considered one of the most heinous acts, and those who commit it are often condemned and demonized by society. The use of the word "monstrous" conveys a sense of moral abhorrence and highlights the extreme nature of society's judgment towards murderers.

However, Greene introduces a thought-provoking twist by asserting that a murderer to himself is only an ordinary man. This statement challenges the dichotomous portrayal of murderers as inherently evil or monstrous. By suggesting that a murderer may see himself as ordinary, Greene invites contemplation on the subjective nature of morality and self-perception. This notion raises questions about the internal justifications and rationalizations that individuals may employ to reconcile their actions with their self-image.

The concluding part of the quote introduces an intriguing paradox by proposing that it is only if the murderer is a good man that he can be regarded as monstrous. This assertion challenges the traditional portrayal of murderers as inherently evil or morally corrupt. Greene's statement suggests that the perceived monstrosity of a murderer is contingent upon his initial moral standing. This idea introduces a nuanced perspective on the nature of evil, implying that the deviation from goodness is what renders the act of murder monstrous.

In essence, Greene's quote prompts an exploration of the complexities inherent in human morality and the intricate interplay between societal judgment and individual self-perception. The quote challenges the simplistic categorization of individuals as either wholly good or wholly evil, and instead, it invites contemplation on the multifaceted nature of human behavior and moral judgment.

In contemplating this quote, one may consider the psychological and ethical implications of Greene's assertions. The quote raises questions about the human capacity for rationalization and moral justification, as well as the subjective nature of morality. It also invites reflection on the societal constructs that shape our perceptions of morality and the inherent biases that may influence our judgments of others.

Overall, Greene's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in the human experience and the moral ambiguities that permeate our understanding of good and evil. It challenges us to examine the intricacies of human behavior and the multifaceted nature of morality, urging us to approach moral judgment with a nuanced and introspective lens.