“No student of history can fail to see the moral interest of the Middle...” — Goldwin Smith Quote

“No student of history can fail to see the moral interest of the Middle Ages, any more than an artist can fail to see their aesthetic interest.”

“It is evident that in the period designated as that of the kings, when Rome commenced her career of conquest, she was, for that time and country, a great and wealthy city.”

“The insular arrogance of the English character is a commonplace joke.”

“I fantasise about what the future could be in terms of aesthetic and psychology. It's the most difficult thing to do because you have to start from the past - your favourite architect, your favourite song - you take it all with you.”

“I make aesthetic movies which are grand and with some of the biggest stars. It's not fair to run them down. I don't make tacky films.”

“When I listen to Amy Winehouse, I believe that her heart and soul is in the music, or if I listen to other British artists like Duffy or Estelle. The aesthetic of it is different, and it's my point of view. It's not anything formulaic.”