To be wise and eke to love, is granted scarce to gods above

To be wise and eke to love, is granted scarce to gods above

The quote "To be wise and eke to love, is granted scarce to gods above" is a profound statement that encapsulates the essence of human existence and the virtues that are often seen as divine. This quote is attributed to the renowned English poet Edmund Spenser, who is best known for his epic poem "The Faerie Queene." In this work, Spenser explores themes of virtue, love, and wisdom, making this quote particularly fitting in the context of his writing.

Spenser's poetry often delves into the complexities of human nature and the struggle to attain both wisdom and love. In "The Faerie Queene," the characters are often faced with moral dilemmas and must navigate the challenges of the world in order to achieve their goals. The quote suggests that the ability to possess both wisdom and love is a rare gift, one that is not easily attained even by the gods themselves.