The civil law, as well as nature herself, has always…
““The civil law, as well as nature herself, has always recognized a wide difference in the respective spheres and destinies of man and woman. Man is, or should be, woman's protector and defender...The constitution of the family organization, which is founded in the divine ordinance, as well as in the nature of things, indicates the domestic sphere as that which properly belongs to the domain and functions of womanhood. The harmony, not to say identity, of interests and views which belong, or should belong, to the family institution is repugnant to the idea of a woman adopting a distinct and independent career from that of her husband...The paramount destiny and mission of women are to fulfil the noble and benign offices of wife and mother. This is the law of the Creator. 1872””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues women belong only in domestic roles, opposing women’s independent careers.
In simple terms: Women should stay home as wives and mothers.
Key Takeaway
Accept traditional gender roles.
Themes
gender roles
family
tradition
Mood
critical
historical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- marriage
- childrearing
- family life
- legal policy
Key Concepts
Patriarchal doctrine
legal theory
social hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- Should personal roles be defined by law or personal choice?
- How do cultural traditions affect gender expectations?
A Different Perspective
Modern societies recognize gender equality and women’s rights.