Edward Gibbon (27 April 1737 – 16 January 1794) was an English historian and Member of Parliament. His most important work, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, was published in six volumes between 1776 and 1788. The Decline and Fall is known for the quality and irony of its prose, its use of primary sources, and its open criticism of organised religion.
Read more about Edward Gibbon: Early Life: 1737–1752, Oxford, Lausanne, and A Religious Journey: 1752–1758, Thwarted Romance, First Fame and The Grand Tour: 1758–1765, The History of The Decline and Fall of The Roman Empire: 1776–1788, Later Years: 1789–1794, Legacy
Famous quotes containing the words edward gibbon, edward and/or gibbon:
“The urgent consideration of the public safety may undoubtedly authorise the violation of every positive law. How far that or any other consideration may operate to dissolve the natural obligations of humanity and justice, is a doctrine of which I still desire to remain ignorant.”
—Edward Gibbon (1737–1794)
““And what will you leave to your own mother dear,
Edward, Edward?
And what will ye leave to your own mother dear,
My dear son, now tell me, O?”
“The curse of hell from me shall ye bear,
Mother, mother;”
—Unknown. Edward (l. 49–54)
“Corruption, the most infallible symptom of constitutional liberty.”
—Edward Gibbon (1737–1794)