Convert HTML blockquote to Markdown Quote Syntax

HTML Blockquotes to Markdown

The HTML <blockquote> element converts to Markdown's > prefix syntax. Blockquotes are commonly used for citations, callout boxes, and quoted text.

Basic Blockquote

<blockquote>
  <p>The only way to do great work is to love what you do.</p>
</blockquote>

Converts to:

> The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

Each line inside the blockquote is prefixed with > .

Multi-Paragraph Blockquotes

<blockquote>
  <p>First paragraph of the quote.</p>
  <p>Second paragraph of the quote.</p>
</blockquote>

Converts to:

> First paragraph of the quote.
>
> Second paragraph of the quote.

Blank lines between paragraphs inside a blockquote are prefixed with a lone > to keep them inside the quote block.

Nested Blockquotes

<blockquote>
  <p>Outer quote</p>
  <blockquote>
    <p>Inner quote</p>
  </blockquote>
</blockquote>

Converts to:

> Outer quote
>
> > Inner quote

Each level of nesting adds another > prefix.

Blockquotes with Rich Content

HTML blockquotes can contain headings, lists, code blocks, and other elements. A good converter handles these recursively:

<blockquote>
  <h3>Note</h3>
  <p>Remember to <strong>backup</strong> your data.</p>
  <ul>
    <li>Database</li>
    <li>Files</li>
  </ul>
</blockquote>

Converts to:

> ### Note
>
> Remember to **backup** your data.
>
> - Database
> - Files

Attribution

HTML does not have a standard attribution element for blockquotes, but <cite> or <footer> inside <blockquote> is a common pattern. Most converters render these as plain text inside the quote, sometimes prefixed with a dash.