Queen Victoria

British monarch, Victorian era

Modern influential 164 sayings

Sayings by Queen Victoria

We are not amused.

c. 1860s-1880s — Attributed to her in various anecdotes, often in response to something she found undignified or impr…
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

To be the mother of a nation is a great thing.

c. 1840s — From a letter or diary entry, reflecting her view of her role.
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I wish for no more children.

c. 1857 — Expressed after many pregnancies, indicating her weariness with childbearing.
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The Queen is a woman, not a machine.

c. 1870s — A frank statement about her own humanity and limitations.
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I am not a fan of the telephone. It is a devil's instrument.

c. 1880s — Her aversion to new technologies, reflecting a cautious and traditional mindset.
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I always think that a lady should be seen and not heard.

c. 1850s — A reflection of Victorian gender roles, though perhaps ironic coming from a powerful queen.
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Marriage is a jump in the dark.

c. 1839 — From a letter or diary entry, showing a pragmatic and somewhat cynical view of matrimony.
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Oh! That I had been born a man!

1832 — Expressed in her diary, lamenting the limitations placed on women, even a queen, in her era.
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I am very anxious for a nice, quiet life.

c. 1860s — Expressed amidst her duties, revealing a longing for simplicity.
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The poor dear always thinks he is right.

c. 1850s — Referring to Prince Albert, showing a touch of exasperation and affection.
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No one can say I am not a patient woman, but I am not a patient woman.

c. 1870s — A contradictory statement reflecting her self-awareness and internal struggle.
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I have a horror of large families.

c. 1860s — Despite having nine children herself, she expressed this sentiment, likely due to the physical toll …
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An ugly baby is a very nasty object.

c. 1840s — A surprisingly blunt and un-regal opinion from her private papers.
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It is a pleasure to be a queen, but it is a greater pleasure to be a wife.

c. 1840s — Reflecting her devotion to Prince Albert.
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I am quite ready to fight for my country.

c. 1850s — A declaration of her strong patriotic spirit.
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The important thing is not what people say, but what I do.

c. 1870s — Her focus on action and duty over public opinion.
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I never could endure to see a woman in trousers.

c. 1880s — A traditional view on women's attire, reflecting the societal norms of her time.
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My life has been one long sorrow.

c. 1862 — Expressed after the death of Prince Albert, highlighting her profound grief.
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I am quite wretched today.

Various — A frequent entry in her diary, revealing her often melancholic disposition.
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I am not a bit changed.

1837 — Said upon her accession, perhaps a naive or defiant statement about her character remaining constant…
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable