Oh, I don’t mind his being wicked: he’s all the better for…
““Oh, I don’t mind his being wicked: he’s all the better for that; and as for disliking him—I shouldn’t greatly object to being Lady Ashby of Ashby Park, if I must marry. But if I could be always young, I would be always single. I should like to enjoy myself thoroughly, and coquet with all the world, till I am on the verge of being called an old maid; and then, to escape the infamy of that, after having made ten thousand conquests, to break all their hearts save one, by marrying some high-born, rich, indulgent husband, whom, on the other hand, fifty ladies were dying to have.’ ‘Well, as long as you entertain these views, keep single by all means, and never marry at all: not even to escape the infamy of old-maidenhood.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A satirical lament about the constraints on women, preferring freedom over marriage despite societal pressure.
In simple terms: Women prefer freedom over marriage.
Key Takeaway
Value independence over social expectations.
Themes
gender
society
freedom
marriage
satire
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
satirical
feminist
When to use this quote
- 19th‑century marriage market
- modern career choices
- single living
- social pressure
- gender roles
Key Concepts
feminist critique
social norms
personal autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you feel societal pressure to marry?
- What freedoms do you cherish?
A Different Perspective
Marriage can also provide partnership and security.