Skip to content

The baneful consequences which flow from inattention to…

“The baneful consequences which flow from inattention to health during infancy, and youth, extend further than is supposed, dependence of body naturally produces dependence of mind; and how can she be a good wife or mother, the greater part of whose time is employed to guard against or endure…” quote by Mary Wollstonecraft
Download Open image
““The baneful consequences which flow from inattention to health during infancy, and youth, extend further than is supposed, dependence of body naturally produces dependence of mind; and how can she be a good wife or mother, the greater part of whose time is employed to guard against or endure sickness; nor can it be expected, that a woman will resolutely endeavour to strengthen her constitution and abstain from enervating indulgences, if artificial notions of beauty, and false descriptions of sensibility, have been early entangled with her motives of action. Most men are sometimes obliged to bear with bodily inconveniences, and to endure, occasionally, the inclemency of the elements; but genteel women are, literally speaking, slaves to their bodies, and glory in their subjection.””

Mary Wollstonecraft

About This Quote

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

Neglecting health in youth creates lifelong dependence, limiting women's ability to fulfill roles and pursue strength.

In simple terms: Early health neglect harms mind and body, restricting women's potential.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize health early to gain independence.

Themes

health gender society dependence

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical social

When to use this quote

  • childhood health
  • women's education
  • family responsibilities

Key Concepts

feminism wellness social expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does early health affect later autonomy?
  • What can be done to shift cultural expectations?
A Different Perspective

Societal pressures often override personal health choices.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Mary Wollstonecraft

Explore all 225 Mary Wollstonecraft quotes

More Beauty quotes

Browse all 24,662 Beauty quotes