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Everybody is taken in at some period or another. [...] In…

“Everybody is taken in at some period or another. [...] In marriage especially. [...] There is not one in a hundred of either sex, who is not taken in when they marry. Look where I will, I see that it is so; and I feel that it must be so, when I consider that it is, of all transactions, the one in…” quote by Jane Austen
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““Everybody is taken in at some period or another. [...] In marriage especially. [...] There is not one in a hundred of either sex, who is not taken in when they marry. Look where I will, I see that it is so; and I feel that it must be so, when I consider that it is, of all transactions, the one in which people expect most from others, and are least honest with themselves.””

Jane Austen

About This Quote

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

People often deceive themselves in marriage, believing they know their partner while ignoring their own biases and expectations.

In simple terms: Self-deception in marriage.

Key Takeaway

Expectations cloud self‑awareness.

Themes

Self‑deception Expectation vs. reality Honesty Trust Human nature

Mood

Reflective Cautious

Type

Observational Philosophical

When to use this quote

  • First‑year marriage counseling
  • Choosing a life partner
  • Negotiating marital roles
  • Reflecting on past relationships

Key Concepts

Cognitive bias Social contract Emotional vulnerability

Practical Applications

  • Couples therapy
  • Premarital education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How might you recognize when you are idealizing a partner?
  • What habits can keep honesty alive in a long‑term relationship?
A Different Perspective

Some couples maintain transparent communication and avoid self‑deception through deliberate reflection.

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