CM
Charles Mackay
45quotes
Charles Mackay: The Scottish Poet and Journalist Who Chronicled Human Nature
Full Name and Common Aliases
Charles Mackay was born on March 26, 1814, in Edinburgh, Scotland. His full name is Charles Mackay of Jean'sland, but he is often referred to as Charles M'Mackay or simply C.M.
Birth and Death Dates
March 26, 1814 - December 24, 1889
Nationality and Profession(s)
Scottish poet, journalist, and writer. Mackay was a prominent figure in the literary world of his time, known for his works on history, poetry, and social commentary.
Early Life and Background
Mackay's early life was marked by tragedy when his mother passed away at a young age, leaving him to be raised by his father, who later became a successful merchant. This upbringing instilled in Mackay a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the value of hard-earned money.
Major Accomplishments
Mackay's writing career spanned over four decades, during which he contributed significantly to various literary journals and publications. He was instrumental in establishing the _Illustrated London News_ as a leading periodical of its time. Mackay also served as a member of the Scottish Bar for several years before dedicating himself full-time to his writing.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Mackay's most notable works include:
"The History of the Progress and Termination of the French Revolution": A comprehensive two-volume account of the French Revolution, which showcased Mackay's exceptional research skills and attention to detail.
"Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions": Mackay's magnum opus, this three-volume work examined various examples of collective madness throughout history, including the Dutch Tulipomania, the South Sea Bubble, and the Mississippi Scheme. The book remains a valuable resource for historians and scholars today.
* Poetry: Mackay was also a talented poet, publishing several collections during his lifetime.
Impact and Legacy
Mackay's writing had a significant impact on the literary world of his time. His works provided insight into human nature, revealing patterns of behavior that continue to influence contemporary society. The Scottish poet's commitment to social commentary and historical analysis has left an enduring legacy in the fields of literature and history.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mackay's writing has stood the test of time due to its thought-provoking nature and relevance to ongoing societal issues. His exploration of human behavior, particularly in relation to collective madness and financial speculation, offers valuable lessons for readers today. As a result, his quotes and writings continue to be widely referenced in academic and popular discourse.
This biography provides an overview of Charles Mackay's life, highlighting his accomplishments as a poet, journalist, and writer. By examining the impact and legacy of this Scottish literary figure, we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of his works and why he remains widely quoted or remembered today.
Quotes by Charles Mackay
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We all pay an involuntary homage to antiquity – a “blind homage,” as Bacon calls it in his “Novum Organum,” which tends greatly to the obstruction of truth. To the great majority of mortal eyes, Time sanctifies everything that he does not destroy. The mere fact of anything being spared by the great foe makes it a favourite with us, who are sure to fall his victims.
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Three causes especially have excited the discontent of mankind; and, by impelling us to seek remedies for the irremediable, have bewildered us in a maze of madness and error. These are death, toil, and the ignorance of the future...
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During seasons of great pestilence men have often believed the prophecies of crazed fanatics, that the end of the world was come. Credulity is always greatest in times of calamity. Prophecies of all sorts are rife on such occasions, and are readily believed, whether for good or evil. During the great plague, which ravaged all Europe, between the years 1345 and 1350, it was generally considered that the end of the world was at hand.
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War in men’s eyes shall be A monster of iniquity In the good time coming. Nations shall not quarrel then, To prove which is the stronger; Nor slaughter men for glory’s sake; – Wait a little longer.
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Much as the sage may affect to despise the opinion of the world, there are few who would not rather expose their lives a hundred times than be condemned to live on, in society, but not of it – a by-word of reproach to all who know their history, and a mark for scorn to point his finger at.
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There’s a fount about to stream, There’s a light about to beam, There’s a warmth about to glow, There’s a flower about to blow; There’s a midnight blackness changing Into gray; Men of thought and men of action, Clear the way.
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Of all the offspring of Time, Error is the most ancient, and is so old and familiar an acquaintance, that Truth, when discovered, comes upon most of us like an intruder, and meets the intruder’s welcome.
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