In morals, truth is but little prized when it is a mere sentiment, and only attains its full value when realized in the world as fact.
Ernest RenanTo be able to think freely, a man must be certain that no consequence will follow whatever he writes.
Ernest RenanThe epic disappeared along with the age of personal heroism; there can be no epic with artillery.
Ernest RenanHuman cruelty took the form of a pact with the deity. A solemn oath was made to kill everything, in which people forbade themselves any display of reason or compassion. A city or a land was devoted to destruction and it was believed an insult to God if one did not observe the abominable oath.
Ernest Renan