The quotations of

Joseph Addison

English essayist, poet, playwright and politician

1672–1719

51 quotes, most often on Life & Death, Character and Virtue.

There are many more shining qualities in the mind of man, but there is none so useful as discretion.
The Spectator, No. 225 (17 November 1711)
- Wisdom
All the illustrious persons of antiquity, and indeed of every age in the world, have passed through this fiery persecution. There is no defense against reproach but obscurity.
The Spectator (1711–1714), No. 101 (26 June 1711)
- Fame
Cunning is only the mimic of discretion, and may pass upon weak men in the same manner as vivacity is often mistaken for wit, and gravity for wisdom.
The Spectator, No. 225 (17 November 1711)
- Character
- Wisdom
Some virtues are only seen in affliction and some in prosperity.
The Spectator (1711–1714), No. 257 (25 December 1711)
- Virtue
Music, the greatest good that mortals know,
And all of heaven we have below.
Song for St. Cecilia’s Day (1692), st. 3
- Music
Thus I live in the world rather as a spectator of mankind than as one of the species.
The Spectator (1711–1714), No. 1 (1 March 1711)

Most quoted