We all walk in mysteries. We are surrounded by an atmosphere about which we still know nothing at all.

Divide and rule, the politician cries; unite and lead, is watchword of the wise.

Confronted by outstanding merit, there is no way of saving one's ego except by love

What a torment it is to see so much loveliness passing and repassing before us, and yet not dare to lay hold of it!

It is always a sign of an unproductive time when it concerns itself with petty and technical aspects [in philology], and likewiseit is a sign of an unproductive person to pursue such trifles.

I have, alas! Philosophy, Medicine, Jurisprudence too, And to my cost Theology, With ardent labor, studied through. And here I stand, with all my lore, Poor fool, no wiser than before.

A great scholar is seldom a great philosopher.