Attempts to limit female mobility by hampering locomotion…
“Attempts to limit female mobility by hampering locomotion are ancient and almost universal. The foot-binding of upper-class Chinese girls and the Nigerian custom of loading women's legs with pounds of heavy brass wire are extreme examples, but all over the world similar stratagems have been employed to make sure that once you have caught a woman she cannot run away, and even if she stays around she cannot keep up with you. ... Literally as well as figuratively modern women's shoes are what keeps Samantha from running as fast as Sammy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Historical attempts to restrict women's freedom often use physical constraints, reflecting broader power dynamics that limit autonomy.
In simple terms: Physical restraints symbolize broader oppression of women.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge constraints on women's freedom.
Themes
gender
oppression
freedom
Mood
critical
empathetic
Type
social
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy reform
- education
- design of women's footwear
Key Concepts
feminist theory
social control
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern practices still limit women's mobility?
- How can design promote gender equity?
A Different Perspective
Cultural change alone may not remove deep‑rooted biases.