Before marriage it is their business to please men; and…
““Before marriage it is their business to please men; and after, with a few exceptions, they follow the same scent, with all the persevering pertinacity of instinct. Even virtuous women never forget their sex in company, for they are for ever trying to make themselves AGREEABLE. A female beauty and a male wit, appear to be equally anxious to draw the attention of the company to themselves; and the animosity of contemporary wits is proverbial.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Critiques how women are socially pressured to be agreeable and attractive, limiting authentic expression.
In simple terms: Societal expectations force women into performative roles.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist limiting norms.
Themes
gender roles
social expectations
authenticity
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- workplace
- social gatherings
- media representation
Key Concepts
feminism
performance theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you navigate expectations?
- What authentic self can you express?
A Different Perspective
May generalize women's experiences.