Whatever comes out of despair cannot bear the title of valor, which should be lifted up to such a height that holding all things under itself, it should be able to maintain its greatness, even in the midst of miseries.

For the uttering sweetly and properly the conceit of the mind, English hath it equally with any other tongue in the world.

Courage without discipline is nearer beastliness than manhood.

If any sensual weakness arise, we are to yield all our sound forces to the overthrowing of so unnatural a rebellion; wherein how can we want courage, since we are to deal against so feeble an adversary, that in itself is nothing but weakness? Nay, we are to resolve that if reason direct it, we must do it, and if we must do it, we will do it; for to say "I cannot" is childish, and "I will not" is womanish.

It is hard, but it is excellent, to find the right knowledge of when correction is necessary and when grace doth most avail.

There have been many most excellent poets that have never versified, and now swarm many versifiers that need never answer to the name of poets.

Lovely sweetness is the noblest power of woman, and is far fitter to prevail by parley than by battle.