I call not that virginity a virtue, which resideth only in…
“I call not that virginity a virtue, which resideth only in the bodies integrity; much less if it be with a purpose of perpetually keeping it: for then it is a most inhumane vice. - But I call that Virginity a virtue which is willing and desirous to yield itself upon honest and lawful terms, when just reason requireth; and until then, is kept with a modest chastity of body and mind.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Donne distinguishes between forced chastity and consensual, purposeful sexual restraint, valuing the latter as virtuous.
In simple terms: True virtue is willing, not imposed.
Key Takeaway
Choose purposeful restraint over imposed purity.
Themes
virtue
chastity
consent
morality
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
literary
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- personal ethics
- religious teaching
- sexual education
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
human sexuality
autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does genuine chastity mean to you?
- How can consent shape moral choices?
A Different Perspective
May ignore personal desire and context, leading to repression.