Every wife ought to answer for her man. If the husband be…
“Every wife ought to answer for her man. If the husband be engaged in a seditious club, or drinks mysterious healths, or be frugal of his candles on a rejoicing night, let her look to him and keep him out of harm's way; or the world will be apt to say, she has a mind to be a widow before her time. She ought, in such cases, to exert the authority of the curtain lecture; and if she finds him of a rebellious disposition, to tame him, as they do birds of prey, by dinning him in the ears all night long.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A wife is expected to monitor and correct her husband's risky or socially unacceptable behavior to protect his reputation and their marriage.
In simple terms: Spousal oversight of husband's conduct.
Key Takeaway
Wives must intervene to safeguard marital standing.
Themes
gender roles
social reputation
marital duty
control dynamics
moral policing
Mood
concerned
authoritative
cautionary
Type
advice
historical
moral
When to use this quote
- husband joining a controversial group
- husband excessive drinking
- husband being stingy during celebrations
Key Concepts
marriage
social expectations
authority
behavioral correction
Practical Applications
- advice column for marital counseling
- historical analysis of gender norms
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view of marital responsibility compare to modern partnership ideals?
- What are the consequences of assigning moral policing to one spouse?
A Different Perspective
Such expectations can be oppressive, limiting women's autonomy and reinforcing patriarchal control.