It is with trifles, and when he is off guard, that a man best reveals his character.

With people of limited ability modesty is merely honesty. But with those who possess great talent it is hypocrisy.

I believe a person of any fine feeling scarcely ever sees a new face without a sensation akin to a shock, for the reason that it presents a new and surprising combination of unedifying elements.

A man can do what he wants, but not want what he wants.

The real meaning of persona is a mask, such as actors were accustomed to wear on the ancient stage; and it is quite true that no one shows himself as he is, but wears his mask and plays his part. Indeed, the whole of our social arrangements may be likened to a perpetual comedy; and this is why a man who is worth anything finds society so insipid, while a blockhead is quite at home in it.

Motives are causes experienced from within.

To forgive and forget means to throw away dearly bought experience.