Archibald Alison (1757–1839) was a distinguished Scottish author, historian, and Episcopal clergyman who played a significant role in the intellectual history of Scotland.
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, into a renowned family, Alison was the younger son of Archibald Alison, an Episcopalian cleric and author, while his elder brother, William Alison, became a physician and social reformer. Alison received his education at the University of Edinburgh, where he excelled in literature and philosophy.
Alison’s most notable achievement was his monumental work, the History of Europe from the Commencement of the French Revolution in 1789 to the Restoration of the Bourbons in 1815 (10 vols., 1833–42.)
In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Alison served as a clergyman in the Church of Scotland, holding various positions, including the parishes of Colinton and Liberton. He diligently fulfilled his pastoral responsibilities in these roles. He also authored several philosophical and moral treatises, such as Essays on the Nature and Principles of Taste (1811) and An Inquiry into the Nature of the Human Soul (1822.) These works delved into aesthetic theory and explored the complex aspects of human perception and judgment.
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The best principles, if pushed to excess, degenerate into fatal vices.—Generosity is nearly allied to extravagance; charity itself may lead to ruin; and the sternness of justice is but one step removed from the severity of oppression.
—Archibald Alison
Topics: Excess
There is no man who has not some interesting associations with particular scenes, or airs, or books, and who does not feel their beauty or sublimity enhanced to him by such connections.
—Archibald Alison
Burke talked of “that digest of anarchy called the Rights of Man.”
—Archibald Alison
Who at this season does not feel impressed with a sentiment of melancholy?
—Archibald Alison
Topics: Autumn
There is a garden in her face, where roses and white lillies show—a heavenly Paradise wherein all pleasant fruits do grow.
—Archibald Alison
Topics: Face
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