10 quotes
Surely something resides in this heart that is not perishable, and life is more than a dream.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
I am persuaded that even the most spontaneous sensations are more under the direction of principle than weak people are willing to allow.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
Executions, far from being useful examples to the survivors, have, I am persuaded, a quite contrary effect, by hardening the heart they ought to terrify.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
It is the preservation of the species, not of individuals, which appears to be the design of Deity throughout the whole of nature.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
The same energy of character which renders a man a daring villain would have rendered him useful to society, had that society been well organized.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
Situation seems to be the mould in which men's characters are formed.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
We reason deeply, when we forcibly feel.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
An ardent affection for the human race makes enthusiastic characters eager to produce alteration in laws and governments prematurely.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
Friendship and domestic happiness are continually praised; yet how little is there of either in the world, because it requires more cultivation of mind to keep awake affection, even in our own hearts, than the common run of people suppose.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)
Affection requires a firmer foundation than sympathy, and few people have a principle of action sufficiently stable to produce rectitude of feeling; for in spite of all the arguments I have heard to justify deviations from duty, I am persuaded that even the most spontaneous sensations are more under the direction of principle than weak people are willing to allow.
Letters Written in Sweden (1796)