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William Warburton Quotes

Powerful William Warburton for Daily Growth

About William Warburton

William Warburton (1698-1779) was an influential English churchman, poet, and critic, best known for his monumental work, "The Works of the Honourable Mr. Alexander Pope." Born on November 5, 1698, in York, England, Warburton showed an early interest in literature. He attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled academically and developed a keen appreciation for classical studies. After graduating, he worked as a private tutor and was later ordained as a clergyman in the Church of England. Warburton's career as a critic began with his influential essay "The Divine Legation of Moses," which argued that the Old Testament was not merely a collection of religious texts but also a work of literature that contained universal truths. This essay established Warburton's reputation as a serious scholar and literary critic. In 1740, Warburton published his magnum opus, "The Works of the Honourable Mr. Alexander Pope," which remains one of the most important works on English literature. The work includes critical assessments of Pope's poems, as well as extensive notes and annotations that provide valuable insights into the poet's life and times. Warburton also served as the Dean of Westminster Abbey from 1757 until his death in 1779. During his tenure as dean, he undertook several architectural projects at the abbey, including the construction of a new library. Warburton's most famous quote, "The true end of all literature is to be read," reflects his lifelong passion for literature and his belief in its power to enrich the lives of readers. Throughout his life, Warburton was influenced by a wide range of authors, including John Milton, John Dryden, and Alexander Pope. His own works continue to influence scholars and literary critics today, making him an enduring figure in the history of English literature.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Little strokes fell great oaks."

The saying "Little strokes fell great oaks" emphasizes that small, seemingly insignificant actions or influences can have a profound impact over time, much like how persistent small blows from a hammer can cause a large tree to fall. This quote serves as a reminder that consistency and perseverance in our daily actions, no matter how minor they may seem, can lead to significant changes or achievements in the long run.

"The greater part of that which we call happiness depends on our disposing of our mind to be satisfied with what we have."

This quote suggests that a significant portion of our perceived happiness in life is influenced by our own mental disposition towards accepting and appreciating what we already possess. It implies that we have the power to find contentment not only in acquiring more, but also in being grateful for what we already have. Essentially, William Warburton is reminding us that inner peace and joy are often found within our capacity to be satisfied with life's present circumstances.

"The greatest of all earthly possessions is contentment."

William Warburton's quote underscores the value of contentment as the most significant earthly possession. Contentment, in this context, signifies a state of inner satisfaction and peace, not dependent on material wealth or external circumstances. By asserting that contentment is the "greatest," Warburton suggests it surpasses other worldly goods in importance because it provides an unshakable sense of well-being and happiness, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

"Ambition, when it plants its root in the soul, gathers strength by unseen degrees and is strengthened by the fall of every obstacle it meets with."

This quote suggests that ambition, when deeply rooted within a person, gradually accumulates power in an almost imperceptible manner, becoming stronger as it encounters and overcomes each obstacle it faces. It highlights the resilience and potential growth of ambition, illustrating how it can persist and even thrive amid challenges.

"To write well, one must be free of care; to live well, one must be contented with little."

This quote by William Warburton suggests that artistic expression (writing well) requires a state of freedom from worries or concerns, as the mind is uncluttered and focused on creativity. On the other hand, living well implies contentment and satisfaction with minimal material possessions or external achievements. Essentially, Warburton is saying that to excel in both life and art, one must find a balance between creative freedom and simple, fulfilled living.

Reason is the test of ridicule, not ridicule the test of truth.

- William Warburton

Truth, Reason, Test, Ridicule

Orthodoxy is my doxy - heterodoxy is another man's doxy.

- William Warburton

Man, Another, Orthodoxy

Enthusiasm is that temper of the mind in which the imagination has got the better of the judgment.

- William Warburton

Mind, Better, Which, Temper

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