Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A man would create another man if one did not already exist, but a woman might live an eternity without even thinking of reproducing her own sex.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A man’s foibles are what makes him lovable.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A man’s shortcomings are taken from his epoch; his virtues and greatness belong to himself.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A mathematician is only perfect insofar as he is a perfect man, sensitive to the beauty of truth.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A person places themselves on a level with the ones they praise.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A person who does not know the history of the last 3,000 years wanders in the darkness of ignorance, unable to make sense of the reality around him.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A phenomenon like Mozart remains an inexplicable thing.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A purpose you impart is no longer your own.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A resolution that is communicated is no longer within thy power; thy attentions become now the plaything of chance; he who would have his commands certainly carried out must take man by surprise.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A school of art or of anything else is to be looked on as a single individual, who keeps talking to himself for a hundred years, and feels an extreme satisfaction with his own circle of favorite ideas, be they ever so silly.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe