"Almost in every kingdom the most ancient families have been at first princes' bastards."

Robert Burton English-language literature See all quotes by Robert Burton →

React to this quote

More by Robert Burton

“To these crocodile tears they will add sobs, fiery sighs, and sorrowful countenance.”

“Though it rain daggers with their points downward.”

“Seneca thinks the gods are well pleased when they see great men contending with adversity.”

“Our conscience, which is a great ledger book, wherein are written all our offenses...grinds our souls with the remembrance of some precedent sins, makes us reflect upon, accuse and condemn ourselves.”

“The Chinese say that we Europeans have one eye, they themselves two, all the world else is blinde.”

“Out of too much learning become mad.”

Resonant Thoughts

"All executive power – from the reign of ancient kings to the rule of modern dictators – has the outward appearance of efficiency."

— William O. Douglas

Law1898–1980

#history

"If the race of armaments continues it will lead to the third world war and to the destruction of our civilization."

— Kirby Page

Politics1890–1957

#history

"When I was a child the atmosphere in the house was one of puritan piety and austerity. There were family prayers at eight o'clock every morning. Although there were eight servants, food was always of …"

— Bertrand Russell

Philosophy1872–1970

#family