This collection of more than 7000 quotations is arranged chronologically from earliest times to the present day. Each chapter marks a historical period, from the Old Testament to the post-war world, with the quotations fitting into their appropriate time period. Some quotations have been selected for the light they thrown on an important event or figure, others are well-known literary quotations, witty remarks and famous sayings. In addition to their economy and wit, many of these quotations show how attitudes have changed, for instance with regard to daily life, love and sex.