The same play whence comes, “Musick has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, To soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak. I’ve read, that things inanimate have mov’d, And, as with living Souls, have been form’d by Magick Numbers and persuasive Sound.” (Act i. Sc. 1.)
The full quote is, “Heav’n has no Rage, like Love to Hatred turn’d, Nor Hell a Fury, like a Woman scorn’d.” (Act iii. Sc. 8.}
Christian.Mercat about 16 years ago
William Congreve, in The mourning bride, 1697
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/179300.html
Possum Pete about 16 years ago
Thanks! Saved me a trip to Google.
runar about 16 years ago
The same play whence comes, “Musick has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, To soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak. I’ve read, that things inanimate have mov’d, And, as with living Souls, have been form’d by Magick Numbers and persuasive Sound.” (Act i. Sc. 1.)
The full quote is, “Heav’n has no Rage, like Love to Hatred turn’d, Nor Hell a Fury, like a Woman scorn’d.” (Act iii. Sc. 8.}