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Fanny Burney
109quotes
Fanny Burney: A Life of Literature and Wit
Full Name and Common Aliases
Fanny Burney was born Frances Burney on June 13, 1752, in Bloomsbury, London, England. She is commonly known as Madame d'Arblay after her marriage.
Birth and Death Dates
June 13, 1752 - January 6, 1840
Nationality and Profession(s)
British novelist, diarist, and playwright
Early Life and Background
Fanny Burney was born into a family of modest means but with strong literary connections. Her father, Dr. Charles Burney, was a musicologist and composer who had written extensively on the subject. Fanny's early life was marked by her love of reading and writing, encouraged by her parents. She began keeping a diary at the age of 12, which would become an invaluable resource for historians and biographers.
Major Accomplishments
Fanny Burney's most notable accomplishment is undoubtedly her novel Evelina (1778), which became a huge success and established her as a prominent writer in London society. Her other notable works include Cecilia (1782) and Camilla (1796). However, it was her diaries that truly showcased her wit, humor, and insight into the lives of those around her.
Notable Works or Actions
Burney's diaries are a treasure trove of observations on life in 18th-century England. Her writings capture the essence of high society, with candid portrayals of royalty, aristocrats, and politicians. One notable example is her account of meeting King George III and Queen Charlotte at court.
In addition to her literary works, Burney was also a skilled musician and played the harp. She even composed music for several occasions, including the coronation of King George IV in 1821.
Impact and Legacy
Fanny Burney's impact on literature is undeniable. Her novels and diaries provide an unparalleled glimpse into life in the late 18th century. Her writing style, which blended humor, wit, and insight, influenced generations of writers to come. The likes of Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters have often been compared to Burney for her keen observations on society.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Burney's writings are widely quoted and remembered due to their relevance, humor, and historical significance. Her diaries offer a unique perspective on life in 18th-century England, from the intricacies of high society to the everyday struggles of ordinary people. As a writer, she is celebrated for her innovative style, which paved the way for future generations of authors.
Fanny Burney's legacy extends beyond her literary works. Her diaries have become an essential resource for historians and scholars, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who shaped British history. As a woman in a male-dominated society, she faced many challenges, yet her determination and perseverance made her one of the most successful writers of her time.
Burney's life is a testament to the power of literature and the enduring impact of a well-written word. Her quotes continue to inspire readers today, offering insights into the human condition that remain as relevant now as they were during her lifetime.
Quotes by Fanny Burney
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I’d rather be done any thing to than laughed at, for, to my mind, it’s one or other the disagreeablest thing in the world.
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To save the mind from preying inwardly upon itself, it must be encouraged to some outward pursuit.
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Well of all things in the world, I don’t suppose anything can be so dreadful as a public wedding – my stars! – I should never be able to support it!
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I cannot be much pleased without an appearance of truth; at least of possibility I wish the history to be natural though the sentiments are refined; and the characters to be probable, though their behaviour is excelling.
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We continually say things to support an opinion, which we have given, that in reality we don’t above half mean.
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There is something in age that ever, even in its own despite, must be venerable, must create respect and to have it ill treated, is to me worse, more cruel and wicked than anything on earth.
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People who live together naturally catch the looks and air of one another and without having one feature alike, they contract a something in the whole countenance which strikes one as a resemblance.
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There’s no nation under the sun can beat the English for ill-politeness: for my part, I hate the very sight of them; and so I shall only just visit a person of quality or two of my particular acquaintance, and then I shall go back again to France.
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In England, I was quite struck to see how forward the girls are made – a child of 10 years old, will chat and keep you company, while her parents are busy or out etc. – with the ease of a woman of 26. But then, how does this education go on? – Not at all: it absolutely stops short.
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O, we all acknowledge our faults, now; ’tis the mode of the day: but the acknowledgment passes for current payment; and therefore we never amend them.
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