Alexander Pope Quotes

Is not virtue a negation of becoming?

We have next to consider the formal definition of virtue.

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.

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

There is no greater wealth than Virtue,And no greater loss than to forget it.

Be virtuous and you will be eccentric.

We know that the exercise of virtue should be its own reward, and it seems to follow that the enduring of it on the part of the patient should be its own punishment.

The whole of virtue consists in its practice.

Life is the reward of virtue. And happiness is the goal and reward of life.

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

Virtue, though she gets her beginning from nature, yet receives her finishing touches from learning.

Virtue is its own punishment.

Without virtue, happiness cannot be.

As to virtue . . . it is an act of the will, a habit which increases the quantity, intensity and quality of life. It builds up, strengthens and vivifies personality.

It is to be steadily inculcated, that virtue is the highest proof of understanding, and the only solid basis of greatness.

He who possess virtue in abundance may be compared to an infant.

The absence of vices adds so little to the sum of one's virtues.

Virtue is indeed its own reward.

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

Man is most happy, when his own actions are arguments and examples of his virtue.

Virtue is the first title of nobility.

The amiable is a duty most certainly, but must not be exercised at the expense of any of the virtues. He who seeks to do the amiable always, can only be successful at the frequent expense of his manhood.

Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent.

So many things--nay every real thing--is good if only it will be humble and ordinate.

The only word for goodness is goodness, and it is not enough.