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What arguments, what persuasions can I make use of, with…

“What arguments, what persuasions can I make use of, with any prospect of success, to such a woman as Madame Duval? ...She is too ignorant for instruction, too obstinate for entreaty, and too weak for reason.” quote by Frances Burney
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““What arguments, what persuasions can I make use of, with any prospect of success, to such a woman as Madame Duval? ...She is too ignorant for instruction, too obstinate for entreaty, and too weak for reason.””

Frances Burney

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

She laments the futility of persuading a stubborn, uneducated woman.

In simple terms: She sees trying to convince an ignorant, obstinate woman as pointless.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits of influence.

Themes

persuasion gender education

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

literary social commentary

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • family negotiations
  • social reform

Key Concepts

social hierarchy communication barriers female agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can patience replace persuasion?
  • What alternative approaches could work?
A Different Perspective

Changing attitudes may be slower than hoped.

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