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Sometimes a woman's love of being loved gets the better of…

“Sometimes a woman's love of being loved gets the better of her conscience, and though she is agonized at the thought of treating a man cruelly, she encourages him to love her while she doesn't love him at all. Then, when she sees him suffering, her remorse sets in, and she does what she can to…” quote by Thomas Hardy
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“Sometimes a woman's love of being loved gets the better of her conscience, and though she is agonized at the thought of treating a man cruelly, she encourages him to love her while she doesn't love him at all. Then, when she sees him suffering, her remorse sets in, and she does what she can to repair the wrong.”

Thomas Hardy

About This Quote

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

A woman's desire for affection can override her morals, leading to cruelty, then remorse and attempts at amends.

In simple terms: Desire can cloud conscience, causing harm and later regret.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address selfish motives early.

Themes

love conscience remorse redemption

Mood

conflicted reflective

Type

narrative ethical

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

psychology ethical conflict relationship dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to seek love at others' expense?
  • How can you align affection with integrity?
A Different Perspective

She may still rationalize harmful behavior despite guilt.

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