Skip to content

History Quote by Anne Brontë

“All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity, that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut. Whether this be the case with my history or not, I am hardly competent to…” quote by Anne Brontë
Download Open image
““All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity, that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut. Whether this be the case with my history or not, I am hardly competent to judge. I sometimes think it might prove useful to some, and entertaining to others; but the world may judge for itself. Shielded by my own obscurity, and by the lapse of years, and a few fictitious names, I do not fear to venture; and will candidly lay before the public what I would not disclose to the most intimate friend.””

Anne Brontë

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë, 1848

The author acknowledges that histories can teach, but their value may be hidden and modest, yet sharing them can still be worthwhile.

In simple terms: Histories teach, though often hidden and modest.

Key Takeaway

Share insights despite modesty.

Themes

knowledge humility sharing

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal memoirs
  • teaching
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

historical insight self‑reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden lessons can you uncover?
  • How do you decide what to reveal?
A Different Perspective

Not all readers will appreciate or understand the subtle lessons.

4.8 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Anne Brontë

Explore all 235 Anne Brontë quotes

More History quotes

Browse all 27,264 History quotes