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Mika Waltari
24quotes
Mika Waltari
Biography of a Finnish Author and Historian
Full Name and Common Aliases
Mika Toimi Waltari was a Finnish author, historian, and professor. His most common alias is Mika Waltari.
Birth and Death Dates
Mika Toimi Waltari was born on September 19, 1908, in Helsinki, Grand Duchy of Finland (now Finland). He passed away on August 26, 1979, at the age of 70.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Waltari was a Finnish citizen. His primary professions were author and historian, but he also worked as a professor and translator.
Early Life and Background
Mika Waltari's family had Finnish, Swedish, and Russian roots. Growing up in Helsinki, he developed an interest in literature and history at an early age. He studied at the University of Helsinki, where he earned his Master's degree in 1931. Later, he traveled to Europe and North Africa, which would later influence his writing.
Major Accomplishments
Mika Waltari is renowned for his work as a historian and author. He wrote numerous novels, essays, and biographies that showcased his expertise in historical fiction and non-fiction. His most notable literary achievements include:
_The Etruscan Woman_ (1947): A historical novel that explores the relationship between an Etruscan woman and her Greek lover.
_The Roman_ (1954): A novel that delves into the life of a young Roman soldier during the 2nd century AD.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Waltari's notable works include:
_The Adventurer_
_The Secret Life of Christ_
* _My Memories of Him_
As an author, historian, and professor, Mika Waltari made significant contributions to Finnish literature and academia. His writing often explored themes of history, culture, and human relationships.
Impact and Legacy
Mika Waltari's legacy extends beyond his literary achievements. He was a respected educator who taught at the University of Helsinki for many years. His expertise in ancient civilizations and historical fiction has inspired generations of writers and historians. Today, his works remain widely read and studied, offering valuable insights into the human experience.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mika Waltari's quotes are often cited due to their thought-provoking nature and insight into human relationships and history. His writing continues to captivate readers with its vivid storytelling and historical accuracy. As a respected author, historian, and educator, he has left an enduring impact on the literary world.
The life and work of Mika Waltari serve as a testament to the power of literature in capturing the essence of human experience. Through his writing, he continues to inspire and educate readers around the world.
Quotes by Mika Waltari

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So much is man the slave of his heart that he will shut his eyes to what does not please him and believe all that he hopes.

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So foolish is the heart of man that he ever puts his hope in the future, learning nothing from his past errors and fancying that tomorrow must be better than today.

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During my life I have seen, known, and lost too much to be the prey of vain dread; and, as for the hope of immortality, I am as weary of that as I am of gods and kings. For my own sake only I write this; and herein I differ from all other writers, past and to come.

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Cada cual busca en sus creencias un consuelo a las contrariedades y reveses de la vida.

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I had not learned then that death avoids a man who desires it, to snatch at him whose heart holds fast to life.

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For I, Sinuhe, am a human being. I have lived in everyone who existed before me and shall live in all who come after me. I shall live in human tears and laughter, in human sorrow and fear, in human goodness and wickedness, in justice and injustice, in weakness and strength. As a human being I shall live eternally in all mankind.

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My spirit welled up in its joy because I asked myself “why?” The dread key to all true knowledge is “why?
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