Francis Macdonald Cornford Quotes

A collection of quotes by Francis Macdonald Cornford.

Francis Macdonald Cornford was a renowned British classicist and philosopher. Born on February 27, 1874, in Eastbourne, England, he was the son of a prominent scholar and Dean of Trinity College, Cambridge. Cornford grew up in an intellectually stimulating environment, which significantly influenced his academic pursuits.

He graduated from Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1896 and became a Fellow in 1900. Cornford dedicated his career to the study of ancient Greek philosophy and literature. He was known for his profound understanding of Plato's work and made significant contributions to the field, particularly in understanding Plato's Theory of Forms and the concept of teleology.

Cornford's exceptional ability to combine philosophical analysis with philological expertise allowed him to provide fresh insights into ancient texts. His works, including "From Religion to Philosophy: A Study in the Origins of Western Speculation" (1912) and "The Republic of Plato" (1945), showcased his meticulous research and deep understanding of Greek thought.

Apart from his academic pursuits, Cornford also served in various administrative roles at Cambridge University. He was elected the Vice-Chancellor of the University in 1936 and remained in the position for six years.

Francis Macdonald Cornford made significant contributions to the field of classical studies, leaving a lasting impact on the understanding of ancient Greek philosophy. He passed away on January 3, 1943, but his legacy as a brilliant scholar and philosopher lives on.