Philippe de Commines quotes

Philippe de Commines was a French writer, diplomat, and historian, renowned for his insightful memoirs. His works provide a unique perspective on the courts of Burgundy and France during the late Middle Ages. He is remembered as one of the earliest practitioners of modern historical observation and political analysis. Here are 7 of his quotes:

Two princes who wish to remain on friendly terms should never see each other but send good and wise men to one another, and these should maintain their friendship and amend any faults.

Philippe de Commines

The two dukes were wise after the event (as the Bretons say).

Philippe de Commines

He who has the profits of war has the honour.

Philippe de Commines

Kings and princes have much more power when they undertake some enterprise on the advice of their subjects. They are then more feared by their enemies.

Philippe de Commines

Now in my opinion, out of all the countries I have personally known, England is the one where public affairs are best conducted and regulated with least violence to the people. There no buildings are knocked down or demolished through war, and disaster and misfortune befall those who make war.

Philippe de Commines

Here you will find a pleasant and agreeable style, of a natural simplicity. The narrative is pure and the good faith of the author shines from it, exempt from the vanity of talking about oneself, and from partiality or envy when speaking of others. His ideas and exhortations are accompanied more by good zeal and truth than by any fine ability; and all throughout there is an authoritative tone and gravity proper to a man of good background, brought up in great affairs.

Philippe de Commines