How can a rational being be ennobled by any thing that is not obtained by its own exertions?
Mary WollstonecraftMen with common minds seldom break through general rules. Prudence is ever the resort of weakness; and they rarely go as far as as they may in any undertaking, who are determined not to go beyond it on any account.
Mary WollstonecraftFriendship and domestic happiness are continually praised; yet how little is there of either in the world, because it requires more cultivation of mind to keep awake affection, even in our own hearts, than the common run of people suppose.
Mary WollstonecraftIn every age there has been a stream of popular opinion that has carried all before it, and given a family character, as it were, to the century.
Mary WollstonecraftMake them free, and they will quickly become wise and virtous, as men become more so; for the improvement must be mutual, or the injustice which one half of the human race are obliged to submit to, retorting on their oppressors, the virtue of men will be worm-eaten by the insect whom he keeps under his feet
Mary Wollstonecraft