Skip to content

But, alas! what poor Woman is ever taught that she should…

“But, alas! what poor Woman is ever taught that she should have a higher Design than to get her a Husband?” quote by Mary Astell
Download Open image
“But, alas! what poor Woman is ever taught that she should have a higher Design than to get her a Husband?”

Mary Astell

About This Quote

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

She critiques the notion that women's higher purpose is marriage, urging women to seek higher design beyond domestic roles.

In simple terms: Women should aim for higher goals than just marriage.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for women's intellectual and social aspirations.

Themes

gender education social roles

Mood

inspirational determined

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • pursuing education
  • career planning
  • advocacy work

Key Concepts

feminism self-actualization social expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can women pursue higher design today?
  • What barriers still exist?
A Different Perspective

Societal norms may resist change.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Mary Astell

Explore all 54 Mary Astell quotes

More Alas quotes

Browse all 453 Alas quotes