Proverbial Wisdom

Express the idea behind each of these proverbs using different words as much as you can.

211. It is a custom
More honoured in the breach than the observance.

William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

Hamlet (Hamlet), Act I, Scene IV

212. It’s ill livin’ in a hen-roost for them as doesn’t like fleas.

George Eliot (1819-1880)

Adam Bede (Mrs Poyser)

213. Curiosity
Does, no less than devotion, pilgrims make.

Abraham Cowley (1618-1667)

Ode on Chair made of Sir F. Drake’s Ship, IV

214. These are the English arts, these we profess,
To be the same in misery and success;
To teach oppressors laws, assist the good,
Relieve the wretched, and subdue the proud.

Charles Montagu, Earl of Halifax (1661-1715)

The Man of Honour

215. A glorious charter, deny it who can,
Is breathed in the words, I’m an Englishman.

Eliza Cook (1818-1889)

The Englishman

216. Learning hath gained most by those books by which the printers have lost.

Thomas Fuller (1654-1734)

The Virtuous Lady. Of Books