Whatever efforts one may make, one must revert to the realization that religion is the real basis of morality; religion is the real and perceptible purpose within us, which alone, can turn aside our attention from things. ... The science of morality can no more teach human beings to be honest, in all the magnificence of this word, than geometry can teach one how to draw.
Madame de Stael[To Bonaparte, when asked why she meddled in politics:] Sire, when women have their heads cut off, it is but just they should know the reason.
Madame de StaelWit lies in recognizing the resemblance among things which differ and the difference between things which are alike.
Madame de StaelLife resembles Gobelin tapestry; you do not see the canvass on the right side; but when you turn it, the threads are visible.
Madame de Staelwomen have no existence except in love; the history of their life begins and ends with love!
Madame de Stael