Mark Twain Quotes

Virtue is the first title of nobility.

Let those who would affect singularity with success first determine to be very virtuous, and they will be sure to be very singular.

Is virtue a thing remote? I wish to be virtuous, and lo! Virtue is at hand.

[M]en will be free no longer then while they remain virtuous.

There has never been a man mean and at the same time virtuous.

Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent.

Character is in turn the enduring source of virtue. It stands by itself and excites admiration in others. It is not obedience to authority, and while it is often consistent with and reinforced by religious belief, it is not piety.

Is not virtue a negation of becoming?

I have seen men incapable of the sciences, but never any incapable of virtue.

But courage without conduct is the virtue of a robber, or a tyrant.

No people can be great who have ceased to be virtuous.

I believe in good, having morals, be a decent person.

Virtue is no empty echo.

A good man will certainly also possess courage; but a brave man is not necessarily good.

If one is not virtuous he becomes vicious.

People are either good or they're not. Religion doesn't make anybody good, I don't think.

There is hardly that person to be found who is not more concerned for the reputation of wit and sense, than honesty and virtue.

Without Virtue there can be no liberty

A good moral character is the first essential. It is highly important not only to be learned but to be virtuous.

We have next to consider the formal definition of virtue.

Good moral character is the first essential in a man.

Ye must leave righteous ways behind, not to speak of unrighteous ways.

Virtue is not always amiable.

Righteousness alone can exalt them [America] as a nation. Reader! Whoever thou art, remember this, and in thy sphere practice virtue thyself and encourage it in others.

A man may be very sincere in good principles, without having good practice.