Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Poet, Playwright, Novelist

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German writer and statesman, known for his influential works like 'Faust' and his exploration of human emotion and nature.

Men Art Life Thinking World People
Born
August 28, 1749
Died
March 22, 1832
Quotes
1.7K
Rank
#90

About Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe — Life and Legacy

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a pivotal figure in German literature and philosophy, renowned for his profound exploration of human emotion and the natural world. His major work, 'Faust', delves into themes of desire, ambition, and the quest for meaning, showcasing his belief in the complexities of the human experience. Goethe's quote, 'Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing', encapsulates his understanding of the tension between romantic ideals and the practicalities of life. He often challenged existing norms, advocating for a deeper appreciation of nature and the arts, as reflected in his assertion that 'Nature knows no pause in progress'. Goethe's insights remain significant today, as they resonate with contemporary struggles for authenticity and understanding. His reflections on beauty and solitude, such as in 'The soul that sees beauty may sometimes walk alone', highlight the emotional depth that characterizes his work. By emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal experience and the broader world, Goethe's quotes continue to inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and the nature of existence.

Quote collection

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe quotes (page 1 of 88)

1.7K quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Poet, Playwright, Novelist
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"You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him."

Loyalty Respect Honesty
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Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Poet, Playwright, Novelist
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"We do not have to visit a madhouse to find disordered minds; our planet is the mental institution of the universe."

Crazy Personality Insanity
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"Every day we should hear at least one little song, read one good poem, see one exquisite picture, and, if possible, speak a few sensible words."

Inspirational Song Intelligence
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"The moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves, too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never have otherwise occurred...unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way."

Moving Commitment Misunderstood
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"The moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. Whatever you think you can do, or believe you can do, begin it. Action has magic, power and grace."

Wisdom Moving Believe
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"Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen."

Inspirational Success Believe
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"At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you."

Commitment Moments Universe
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"I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element. It is my personal approach that creates the climate. It is my daily mood that makes the weather....In all situations, it is my response that decides whether a crisis is escalated or de-escalated, and a person is humanized or is dehumanized."

Integrity Weather Climate
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"Nothing is more disgusting than the majority: because it consists of a few powerful predecessors, of rogues who adapt themselves, of weak who assimilate themselves, and the masses who imitate without knowing at all what they want."

Powerful Knowing Majority
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"If I accept you as you are, I will make you worse; however, if I treat you as though you are what you are capable of becoming, I help you become that."

Happiness Uplifting Smart
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"There is nothing worse than aggressive stupidity."

War Stupid Aggressive
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"A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart."

Wise Dream Attitude
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"One must ask children and birds how cherries and strawberries taste."

Summer Nature Children
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"Hell begins the day that God grants you the vision to see all that you could have done, should have done, and would have done, but did not do."

Memories Should Have Religion
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"Enjoy when you can, and endure when you must."

Life Witty Clever
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"Nothing is worth more than this day. You cannot relive yesterday. Tomorrow is still beyond your reach."

Time Yesterday Mindfulness
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