Skip to content

By taking a second wife he pays the highest compliment to…

“By taking a second wife he pays the highest compliment to the first, by showing that she made him so happy as a married man, that he wishes to be so a second time.” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“By taking a second wife he pays the highest compliment to the first, by showing that she made him so happy as a married man, that he wishes to be so a second time.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

Suggests that taking a second wife honors the first by showing the happiness marriage can bring, implying the first wife’s value.

In simple terms: A second marriage can be a tribute to the first.

Key Takeaway

Value the happiness your partner brings.

Themes

marriage honor valuation

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical social

When to use this quote

  • family dynamics
  • cultural expectations
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

social norms ethical considerations

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it fair to view a second marriage as a compliment?
  • What are the ethical implications of this perspective?
A Different Perspective

May ignore the autonomy and feelings of the first wife.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Compliment quotes

Browse all 1,338 Compliment quotes