The 9 Most Memorable Quotations in English Literature
English literature is one of the most beloved languages on the planet, and there are a lot of reasons why. One of the biggest reasons is because of the quotes that are contained within it. These quotes are often so beautiful and powerful that they can truly inspire someone to think about life in a different way.
English Literature quotes
1. “A little learning is a dangerous thing. Much learning is a nuisance.” -William Hogarth
William Hogarth was a British painter and printmaker who is best known for his satirical works and aphorisms. In this quote, Hogarth warns that extended learning can be very troublesome. He points out that many people are overwhelmed by information and don’t know how to process it properly. This can lead to problems in life.
2. “To be ignorant of what other people know and think is a misfortune, but to know nothing is the greatest of all.” -Montaigne
Ignorance is perhaps the greatest misfortune a person can have. For Montaigne, it is a weighty realization that to be ignorant of the thoughts and opinions of others is to be out of the loop. This can be frustrating and dangerous, as we can easily become embroiled in needless arguments and misunderstandings. However, ignorance also has its benefits.
For one, it allows us to live in peace and solitude- two cherished values that Montaigne feels are essential for a productive life. It is also a way of preserving our sanity, which can be sorely tested by the demands of the world. In the end, Montaigne is clear on one point: ignorance is not always a bad thing.
3. “The love of learning is the root of all evil.” -Cicero
Cicero is one of the most well-known and praised figures in the history of Western philosophy. In this quote, Cicero warns against all forms of love, including the love of learning. He believes that this type of love is the root of all evil. In the end, it is ignorance that leads to suffering and misery.
4. “The love of books is the root of all knowledge.” -Erasmus
One of the most famous quotations attributed to Erasmus is: “The love of books is the root of all knowledge.” This statement is truly reflective of Erasmus’ belief that reading and learning are essential for a well-rounded individual. By encouraging people to love books, Erasmus was fighting for the freedom to learn and grow. He believed that books could foster friendships and relationships – two important aspects of a healthy life.
5. “The world is a book and those who do not read it are doomed to live in ignorance.” -Erasmus
Erasmus believes that the world is a book, and those who do not read it are doomed to live in ignorance. He points to the many opportunities that exist for humans to learn about the world around them if they simply take the time to explore.
Erasmus reminds us that knowledge is power, and that without learning we are at a disadvantage. He urges readers to take advantage of all the resources available to them, and to never stop learning.
6. “If you cannot speak well of yourself, you must speak well of others.” -Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci was a genius and he knew it. He often quoted himself as saying, ‘I am not ashamed to say that I am a great painter, but I am ashamed of the mediocrity that inhabits my mind.’ He believed that it was important to always be learning and expanding one’s knowledge, which is evidenced by his many quotes about learning and education.
Some of Leonardo’s most famous quotes are about humility and self-love, such as, ‘When you want to know the value of something, ask the person who doesn’t want it.'”
7. “And converse with the flowers, and be still.” -Henry David Thoreau
David Thoreau loved nature and he wanted people to enjoy it too. He believed that talking to plants was a great way to learn and relax. He also thought that being quiet and still was a great way to connect with the world around you.
Talking to plants can be a great way to learn new things and to decompress. Being still can help you to connect with your surroundings and ground yourself in the here and now. In this way, both activity and silence can encourage contemplation and reflection.
8. “Silence is the true gold of conversation.” -Thomas Fuller
Thomas Fuller believes that silence is the true gold of conversation. He says that it is often easier to just listen than to talk, and that speaking without thinking can be dangerous. But, more importantly, silence can be a powerful tool for communication. It can be positive or negative, but either way it is important.
9. “Courtly love is a false and deadly kind of love.” -John Donne
John Donne was a famous poet who wrote extensively on the subject of courtly love. He warned of the dangers of this type of love, which can be deadly if not handled correctly. Courtly love is often seen as a beautiful and romantic path to follow, but it is actually a dangerous and false love. Donne warns of the dangers of being wrapped up in this type of love, which can cause great harm.
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