And such is your definition of matrimony and dancing…
““And such is your definition of matrimony and dancing. Taken in that light, certainly their resemblance is not striking; but I think I could place them in such a view. You will allow that in both man has the advantage of choice, woman only the power of refusal; that in both it is an engagement between man and woman, formed for the advantage of each; and that when once entered into, they belong exclusively to each other till the moment of its dissolution; that it is their duty each to endeavor to give the other no cause for wishing that he or she had bestowed themselves elsewhere, and their best interest to keep their own imaginations from wandering towards the perfections of their neighbors, or fancying that they should have been better off with any one else.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Marriage is portrayed as a mutual contract where men choose and women refuse, emphasizing exclusive commitment and loyalty.
In simple terms: Marriage is a mutual, exclusive commitment.
Key Takeaway
Respect and loyalty sustain partnership.
Themes
marriage
commitment
gender roles
loyalty
choice
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- courtship
- marital counseling
- family planning
- relationship building
Key Concepts
social contract
mutual respect
Questions to Reflect On
- How do contemporary couples negotiate choice and refusal?
- What responsibilities do partners share in a marriage?
A Different Perspective
Modern views on gender equality challenge the described dynamics.