Quotes by Mary Beard

Wherever possible, I try to see things from the other side of the dividing line and to read civilisation 'against the grain.'

All religions throughout history have been concerned about - and have sometimes fought over - what it means to represent God, and they have found elegant, intriguing, and awkward ways to confront that dilemma.

If being a decent soul is being maternal, then fine.

I was nearly struck by lightning on an excavation in Turkey.

I was not much good as a waitress.

I have always hated fancy dress parties.

What interests me is the idea that classics is actually quite democratic. It isn't only the toff, upper-class subject it's often thought to be. Every generation enjoys rediscovering it.

I used to think that the British press were particularly awful to Cherie Blair. I think Blair's foreign policy was a complete disaster, but the British press, when they wanted to explain why Blair took unexpected moves, they did create Cherie as the power behind the throne.

There is nothing inherently conservative in the ancient world.

The reason why the British theatrical tradition is world-leading in Greek drama is because there is a flourishing tradition of people rethinking Greek tragedy.