"Bold knaves thrive without one grain of sense, But good men starve for want of impudence."

Courage

Create & Download Quote Image

Select Template

Insight & Reflection

The theme of courage is universal, yet John Dryden manages to capture its essence in a uniquely profound way. Taking a moment to internalize this can shift our mindset, reminding us that our perspective on courage often shapes our reality.

About John Dryden

John Dryden was an English poet, literary critic, translator, and playwright who in 1668 was appointed England's first Poet Laureate. He is seen as dominating the literary life of Restoration England to such a point that the period came to be known in literary circles as the Age of Dryden. Romantic writer Sir Walter Scott called him "Glorious John".

More quotes by John Dryden  ’
Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the Quotes Archive Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by John Dryden

"Men are but children of a larger growth; Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain."

Read more  ’

More about Courage

"It is a humble truth that the canvas of imagination has no boundaries except those imposed by fear — an essential principle for the reflective life."

Read more  ’

"We are all convention; convention carries us away, and we neglect the substance of things.… We dare not call our parts by their right names, but are not afraid to use them for every sort of debauchery."

Read more  ’

"Fear will knock at every door; only those with resolved hearts refuse to let it enter. Reflect upon this whenever doubt clouds your horizon — an essential principle for the reflective life."

Read more  ’
View all Courage quotes  ’