Ernest Renan

Ernest Renan

Joseph Ernest Renan (28 February 1823 – 2 October 1892) was a French expert of Middle East ancient languages and civilizations, philosopher and writer, devoted to his native province of Brittany. He is best known for his influential historical works on early Christianity and his political theories, especially concerning nationalism and national identity.

Read more about Ernest Renan:  Reputation and Controversies, Works, Honours, Archives and Memorabilia

Famous quotes containing the words ernest renan, ernest and/or renan:

    As a rule, all heroism is due to a lack of reflection, and thus it is necessary to maintain a mass of imbeciles. If they once understand themselves the ruling men will be lost.
    Ernest Renan (1823–1892)

    For it’s home, dearie, home—it’s home I want to be.
    Our topsails are hoisted, and we’ll away to sea.
    O, the oak and the ash and the bonnie birken tree
    They’re all growing green in the old countrie.
    —William Ernest Henley (1849–1903)

    Let us pardon him his hope of a vain apocalypse, and of a second coming in great triumph upon the clouds of heaven. Perhaps these were the errors of others rather than his own; and if it be true that he himself shared the general illusion, what matters it, since his dream rendered him strong against death, and sustained him in a struggle to which he might otherwise have been unequal?
    —Ernest Renan (1823–1892)