William Smith
Sir William Smith was an influential English lexicographer renowned for his contributions to the teaching of classical languages, particularly Greek and Latin. His most notable work, the 'A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities,' published in 1875, became a fundamental resource for students and scholars alike, providing comprehensive insights into the culture, history, and literature of ancient civilizations. Smith's dedication to education and scholarship significantly shaped the curriculum in schools, making classical studies more accessible and engaging for students. In addition to his dictionary, Smith was instrumental in the establishment of the Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies, which aimed to foster the study of Greek culture and language. His efforts not only advanced the academic field but also inspired generations of students and educators to appreciate the richness of classical antiquity. Smith's legacy endures through his scholarly works and the lasting impact he had on the teaching of classical languages, solidifying his place as a key figure in 19th-century education and lexicography.
Famous Quotes
View all 6 quotes“A writer or any artist can’t expect to be embraced by the people. I've done records where it seemed like no one listened to them. You write poetry books that maybe 50 people read. And you just keep doing your work because you have to, because it’s your calling.But it’s beautiful to be embraced by the people.Some people have said to me, “Well, don’t you think that kind of success spoils one as an artist? If you’re a punk rocker, you don’t want to have a hit record…”And I say to them, “Fuck you!” One does their work for the people. And the more people you can touch, the more wonderful it is. You don’t do your work and say, “I only want the cool people to read it.” You want everyone to be transported, or hopefully inspired by it.When I was really young, William Burroughs told me, “Build a good name. Keep your name clean. Don’t make compromises. Don’t worry about making a bunch of money or being successful. Be concerned with doing good work. And make the right choices and protect your work. And if you can build a good name, eventually that name will be its own currency.””
“When I realize that God makes his gifts fit each person, there's no way I can covet what you got because it just wouldn't fit me.””
“Why, Mr. Anderson?, Why, why?. Why do you do it? Why, why get up?. Why keep fighting?. Do you believe you're fighting...for something?.For more than your survival?. Can you tell me what it is?. Do you even know?; Is it freedom?, Or truth?. Perhaps peace?. Could it be for love?Illusions, Mr. Anderson. Vagaries of perception. Temporary constructs of a feeble human intellect trying desperately to justify an existence that is without meaning or purpose. And all of them as artificial as the Matrix itself, although... only a human mind could invent something as insipid as love. You must be able to see it, Mr. Anderson. You must know it by now, You can't win. It's pointless to keep fighting. Why, Mr. Anderson?. Why?, Why do you persist?. Agent Smith ( Matrix Revolutions Movie, 2003 ).””
Books from the author
