Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Quotes

A collection of quotes by Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr..

Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. (1809-1894) was an American physician, poet, and essayist, remembered as one of the leading figures in the literary scene of 19th-century Boston. He was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and came from a prominent family. Holmes graduated from Harvard College in 1829 and went on to study law, although he discovered his true passion lay in the field of medicine. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School in 1836.

During his career as a physician, Holmes made significant contributions to various fields of medicine. He championed the importance of hygiene in obstetrics, advocated for the use of anesthesia during surgeries, and became known for his research on contagious diseases. However, it was through his literary works that Holmes gained widespread fame. His collection of essays, titled "The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table" (1858), garnered critical acclaim and captivated readers with its wit and humor.

Holmes was an avid poet, producing a range of poetic works throughout his life. One of his most famous poems, "Old Ironsides," protested the planned scrapping of the USS Constitution and played a significant role in its preservation. Holmes's writing showcased a unique blend of scientific knowledge, literary prowess, and social commentary, making him a respected and beloved figure in American literature. He continued writing and publishing essays, poems, and novels until his death in 1894, leaving behind a remarkable literary legacy.