No man ever distinguished himself who could not bear to be laughed at.
—Maria Edgeworth, 1809
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Quotes
Laughter always arises from a gaiety of disposition, absolutely incompatible with contempt and indignation.
—Voltaire, 1736Jests and scoffs do lessen majesty and greatness and should be far from great personages and men of wisdom.
—Henry Peacham, 1622A difference of taste in jokes is a great strain on the affections.
—George Eliot, 1876I used to think that everyone was just being funny. But now I don’t know. I mean, how can you tell?
—Andy Warhol, 1970