1,083 Quotes by Alexander Pope

A little Learning is a dangerous Thing.

Those half-learn'd witlings, num'rous in our isle As half-form'd insects on the banks of Nile

Know then thyself; presume not God to scan,The proper study of mankind is Man.Placed on this isthmus of a middle state,A being darkly wise and rudely great:With too much knowledge for the Sceptic side,And too much weakness for the Stoic's pride,He hangs between; in doubt to act or rest;In doubt to deem himself a God or Beast;In doubt his mind or body to prefer;Born but to die, and reas'ning but to err.Alike in ignorance, his reason such,Whether he thinks too little or too much.

For forms of Government let fools contest. Whate'er is best administered is best.

The difference is too nice - Where ends the virtue or begins the vice.

Most critics, fond of subservient artstill make the whole depend upon a part.They talk of principles, but notions prizeAnd all to one loved folly sacrifice.

Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.

Some judge of authors' names, not works, and then nor praise nor blame the writings, but the men.

What then remains, but well our power to use,And keep good humour still whate’er we lose?And trust me, dear, good humour can prevail,When airs, and flights, and screams, and scolding fail.Beauties in vain their pretty eyes may roll;Charms strike the sight, but merit wins the soul