Richard the Lionheart

English king, Crusader

Medieval influential 110 sayings

Sayings by Richard the Lionheart

If I were to search the world for a second self, I could not find one so wicked.

1190s — Referring to his own ruthlessness.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I would trade my kingdom for a good horse.

1190s — Alleged remark during a battle.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The devil take all priests who cannot fight!

1190s — Response to clergy who criticized his wars.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I care not for heaven if I cannot have my revenge.

1190s — Reported during conflicts with Philip II of France.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

A king who cannot wield a sword is no king at all.

1190s — Statement on rulership.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I would rather be feared than loved.

1190s — Reported remark to his advisors.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Let them call me tyrant—better than being called weak.

1190s — Response to criticism of his rule.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

By God's teeth, I will sell London if I can find a buyer rich enough!

1189 — Reported during his fundraising efforts for the Third Crusade.
Controversial Unverifiable

He who fears God fears nothing else.

c. 1190 — A general maxim attributed to him, reflecting his religious fervor and martial spirit.
Controversial Unverifiable

I am born of the devil, and to the devil I must go.

c. 1190 — Reported to have said this, possibly in reference to his Plantagenet lineage and its reputation.
Controversial Unverifiable

If I had a daughter, I would give her to the devil for his concubine.

c. 1190 — A harsh statement attributed to him, possibly reflecting his disdain for marriage or his own difficu…
Controversial Unverifiable

The greatest glory of a king is to be a terror to his enemies.

c. 1190 — A sentiment reflecting his military prowess and reputation.
Controversial Unverifiable

He who has no stomach for this fight, let him depart.

c. 1190 — A motivational phrase often attributed to commanders before battle.
Controversial Unverifiable

I will not return until I have avenged the insult to the Holy Sepulchre.

1189 — His declaration upon setting out for the Third Crusade.
Controversial Unverifiable

God's will be done!

c. 1190 — A common expression of faith, often attributed to him in times of decision or battle.
Controversial Unverifiable

My mind is fixed on Jerusalem.

1190 — His stated focus during the Third Crusade.
Controversial Unverifiable

Let no one stand in my way.

c. 1190 — A forceful declaration attributed to him, showing his determination.
Controversial Unverifiable

I fear nothing but God.

c. 1190 — A common sentiment of a devout warrior.
Controversial Unverifiable

I will not leave a stone unturned to recover my inheritance.

c. 1190 — Referring to his efforts to reclaim lost territories or his kingdom.
Controversial Unverifiable

My kingdom is not of this world.

c. 1190 — A religious statement, possibly reflecting his focus on the spiritual rather than purely earthly con…
Controversial Unverifiable