Skip to content

Without thinking highly either of men or of matrimony…

“Without thinking highly either of men or of matrimony, marriage had always been her object; it was the only honourable provision for well-educated young women of small fortune, and however uncertain of giving happiness, must be their pleasantest preservative from want.” quote by Jane Austen
Download Open image
““Without thinking highly either of men or of matrimony, marriage had always been her object; it was the only honourable provision for well-educated young women of small fortune, and however uncertain of giving happiness, must be their pleasantest preservative from want.””

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.

Marriage is presented as a pragmatic solution for educated women lacking wealth, despite uncertain happiness.

In simple terms: Marriage is a practical option for poor educated women.

Key Takeaway

Recognize social constraints on women's choices.

Themes

social expectations gender roles economic survival

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary social commentary

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • family expectations
  • financial independence
  • social mobility

Key Concepts

Patriarchal society marriage as economic security

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do economic pressures shape personal relationships?
  • What alternatives existed for women then?
A Different Perspective

May overlook personal agency and emotional fulfillment.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jane Austen

Explore all 2,013 Jane Austen quotes

More Educated quotes

Browse all 1,843 Educated quotes