But the power of instruction is seldom of much efficacy, except in those happy dispositions where it is almost superfluous.

Of the various forms of government which have prevailed in the world, an hereditary monarchy seems to present the fairest scope for ridicule.

History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.

History is little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.

The various modes of worship which prevailed in the Roman world were all considered by the people as equally true; by the philosopher as equally false; and by the magistrate as equally useful.

The historian must have some conception of how men who are not historians behave.

On the slightest touch the unsupported fabric of their pride and power fell to the ground. The expiring senate displayed a sudden lustre, blazed for a moment, and was extinguished for ever.

The theologian may indulge the pleasing task of describing Religion as she descended from Heaven, arrayed in her native purity. A more melancholy duty is imposed on the historian. He must discover the inevitable mixture of error and corruption which she contracted in a long residence upon Earth, among a weak and degenerate race of beings.

The voice of history is often little more than the organ of hatred or flattery.