Proverbial Wisdom
Express the idea behind each of these proverbs using different words as much as you can.
Express the idea behind each of these proverbs using different words as much as you can.
On this page you will a find a selection of brief sayings, including short quotations from English literature as well as traditional proverbs. Choose a saying, and try to express the idea in different words as much as you can. In what circumstances might you use this quotation?
Note: Many of these proverbs and quotations are in archaic English, and neither grammar nor spelling has been modernised.
1.
He’s truly valiant, that can wisely suffer
The worst that men can breathe.
Timon of Athens (First Senator), Act III, Scene V
2.
If reasons were as plenty as blackberries,
I would give no man a reason upon compulsion.
Henry IV, Pt I (Falstaff), Act II, Scene IV
3. The tree is known by his fruit.
Matthew 12:33
4.
He loves his bonds who, when the first are broke,
Submits his neck unto a second yoke.
Hesperides, 42
5. The man who has not anything to boast of but his illustrious ancestors is like a potato, — the only good belonging to him is under ground.
(Attributed)
6. A man’s disposition is never well known till he be crossed.
Advancement of Learning, Bk II