Tragedy is an imitation not only of a complete action, but of events inspiring fear and pity. Such an effect is best produced when the events come on us by surprise; and the effect is heightened when, at the same time, they follow as cause and effect. The tragic wonder will then be great than if they happened of themselves or by accident; for even coincidences are most striking when they have an air of design.

A man's happiness consists in the free exercise of his highest faculties.

These virtues are formed in man by his doing the actions ... The good of man is a working of the soul in the way of excellence in a complete life.

There must be in prudence also some master virtue.

Our problem is not that we aim too high and miss, but that we aim too low and hit.

Talent is culture with insolence.

Men are marked from the moment of birth to rule or be ruled.