MW

Mary Wortley Montagu

119quotes

Full Name and Common Aliases


Mary Wortley Montagu
Countess of Belfield and Rosslyn, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu

Birth and Death Dates


May 1689 - May 1762

Nationality and Profession(s)


English noblewoman, writer, traveller, and translator. She was also a prominent socialite and the wife of Edward Wortley-Montagu.

Early Life and Background


Mary Wortley Montagu was born in London, England in May 1689 to Edward and Mary Granville. Her father was an Anglican clergyman who served as the Archbishop's Commissary for Wales. She received a private education at home, where she developed her literary skills and learned several languages.

Major Accomplishments


- Introduction of Smallpox Inoculation: Montagu is credited with introducing smallpox inoculation to England from Turkey, where she had observed the practice among the locals. This led to significant improvements in public health.
- Prominent Socialite: She was a prominent socialite and hostess, known for her beauty, wit, and intelligence.
- Traveler and Writer: Montagu's travels with her husband to Europe and Turkey provided her with inspiration for her writing.

Notable Works or Actions


Montagu wrote several books, including _The Nonsense of Common Sense_ (1762), a novel that satirizes the society of her time. She also published numerous letters and essays on various subjects, such as politics, literature, and travel.

Impact and Legacy


- Advocate for Women's Rights: Montagu was an advocate for women's rights and education, believing that women should have equal opportunities to men.
- Promoter of Public Health: Her introduction of smallpox inoculation significantly improved public health in England and paved the way for future vaccination efforts.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Montagu is widely quoted and remembered for her wit, intelligence, and strong personality. Her writings offer valuable insights into 18th-century society, politics, and culture. As a pioneering advocate for women's rights and public health, she continues to inspire readers around the world.

Mary Wortley Montagu's quotes and writings are still studied today for their historical significance and literary merit. Her legacy serves as a testament to her enduring impact on English literature and society.

In conclusion, Mary Wortley Montagu was a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on history through her writing, socialite status, and contributions to public health. As a prominent figure of the 18th century, she continues to captivate readers with her wit, intelligence, and advocacy for women's rights and education.

Quotes by Mary Wortley Montagu

Mary Wortley Montagu's insights on:

Time has the same effect on the mind as on the face; the predominant passion and the strongest feature become more conspicuous from the others' retiring.
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Time has the same effect on the mind as on the face; the predominant passion and the strongest feature become more conspicuous from the others' retiring.
MW
Nobody can deny but religion is a comfort to the distressed, a cordial to the sick, and sometimes a restraint on the wicked; therefore whoever would argue or laugh it out of the world without giving some equivalent for it ought to be treated as a common enemy.
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Nobody can deny but religion is a comfort to the distressed, a cordial to the sick, and sometimes a restraint on the wicked; therefore whoever would argue or laugh it out of the world without giving some equivalent for it ought to be treated as a common enemy.
MW
Prudent people are very happy; ’tis an exceeding fine thing, that’s certain, but I was born without it, and shall retain to my day of Death the Humour of saying what I think.
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Prudent people are very happy; ’tis an exceeding fine thing, that’s certain, but I was born without it, and shall retain to my day of Death the Humour of saying what I think.
MW
The pious farmer, who ne’er misses pray’rs, With patience suffers unexpected rain; He blesses Heav’n for what its bounty spares, And sees, resign’d, a crop of blighted grain. But, spite of sermons, farmers would blaspheme, If a star fell to set their thatch on flame.
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The pious farmer, who ne’er misses pray’rs, With patience suffers unexpected rain; He blesses Heav’n for what its bounty spares, And sees, resign’d, a crop of blighted grain. But, spite of sermons, farmers would blaspheme, If a star fell to set their thatch on flame.
MW
Let this great maxim be my virtue’s guide,- In part she is to blame that has been tried: He comes too near that comes to be denied.
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Let this great maxim be my virtue’s guide,- In part she is to blame that has been tried: He comes too near that comes to be denied.
MW
One can never outlive one’s vanity.
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One can never outlive one’s vanity.
MW
Only a mother knows a mother’s fondness.
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Only a mother knows a mother’s fondness.
MW
It’s all been very interesting.
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It’s all been very interesting.
MW
Satire should, like a polished razor keen, Wound with a touch that’s scarcely felt or seen.
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Satire should, like a polished razor keen, Wound with a touch that’s scarcely felt or seen.
MW
I have often observ’d the loudest Laughers to be the dullest Fellows in the Company.
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I have often observ’d the loudest Laughers to be the dullest Fellows in the Company.
MW
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