"Wit as an instrument of revenge is as infamous as art is as a means of sensual titillation"

Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel's quote speaks to the power of wit and art. He suggests that wit can be utilized as a tool of revenge, which is an immoral and unethical act. Similarly, art can be used to turn on the senses, which can be seen as a form of exploitation. Schlegel's quote implies that both wit and art can be utilized for negative functions, and that it is necessary to utilize them responsibly. He is warning versus the misuse of these powerful tools, and encourages us to use them for positive purposes. By doing so, we can ensure that wit and art are used to produce significant connections and experiences, rather than to control or exploit others.