Humboldt Quotes by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

True works of art contain their own theory and give us the measurement according to which we should judge them.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

I never believed in trying to do anything. Whatever I set out to do I found I had already accomplished.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

All lyrical work must, as a whole, be perfectly intelligible, but in some particulars a little unintelligible.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

We know accurately only when we know little, with knowledge doubt increases.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

It is easier to perceive error than to find truth, for the former lies on the surface and is easily seen, while the latter…

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

There is no patriotic art and no patriotic science.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

The connoisseur of art must be able to appreciate what is simply beautiful, but the common run of people is satisfied with ornament

— Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Nothing is worse than active ignorance.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Let us not dream that reason can ever be popular. Passions, emotions, may be made popular; but reason remains ever the property of an…

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Our foibles are really what make us lovable.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Instruction does much, but encouragement everything.

— Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Giving is the business of the rich.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe