Memorable Quotations: Henri Frédéric Amiel

Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821 - 1881) was a Swiss philosopher, poet and critic. Amiel journeyed extensively, became familiar with the intellectual forerunners of Europe, and made a distinctive study of German philosophy in Berlin. In 1849 he was chosen professor of aesthetics at the academy of Geneva, and in 1854 became professor of moral philosophy. Bestowed by the democratic party, these appointments divested him of the backing of the aristocratic party, which encompassed virtually all the culture of the city. This seclusion instigated the one book by which Amiel is still known, the Journal Intime ("Private Journal"), which, published after his death, attained a European repute. It shows a sensitive man of vast intellectual ability, fighting for values against the cynicism of the age. Broadly translated, it secured Amiel permanent renown. Although moderate in volume of output, Amiel's mind was of no inferior quality, and his Journal gained a consideration that the author had failed to acquire in his life. In addition to the Journal, he generated numerous volumes of poetry and wrote studies on Erasmus, Madame de Stael and other writers.