“If she did not wish to lead a virtuous life, at least she desired to enjoy a character for virtue, and we know that no lady in the genteel world can possess this desideratum, until she has put on a… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
I suppose as long as novels last, and authors aim at interesting their public, there must always be in the story a virtuous and gallant hero; a wicked monster, his opposite; and a pretty girl, who finds a champion. Bravery… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
“To those great geniuses now in petticoats, who shall write novels for the beloved reader's children, these men and things will be as much… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
When one fib becomes due as it were, you must forge another to take up the old acceptance; and so the stock of your… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
Let a man who has to make his fortune in life remember this maxim: Attacking is the only secret. Dare and the world yields,… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
As nature made every man with a nose and eyes of his own, she gave him a character of his own, too; and yet… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
It is best to love wisely, no doubt; but to love foolishly is better than not to be able to love at all. — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
Our great thoughts, our great affections, the truths of our life, never leave us. Surely they can not separate from our consciousness, shall follow… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
Charming Alnaschar visions! it is the happy privilege of youth to construct you. — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
To see a young couple loving each other is no wonder; but to see an old couple loving each other is the best sight… — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image
An immense percentage of snobs, I believe, is to be found in every rank of this mortal life. — William Makepeace Thackeray Copy Share Image