We may not commit a lesser Sin under pretence to avoid a greater, but we may, nay we ought to endure the greatest Pain and Grief rather than commit the least Sin. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
The Steps to Folly as well as Sin are gradual, and almost imperceptible, and when we are once on the Decline, we go down without taking notice on't. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
He who will be just, must be forc'd to acknowledge, that neither Sex are always in the right. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
A husband is indeed thought by both sexes so very valuable, that scarce a man who can keep himself clean and make a bow,… — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
“Strip him of equipage and fortune, and such things as only dazzle our eyes and imaginations, but don't in any measure affect our reason… — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
How can a Man respect his Wife when he has a contemptible Opinion of her and her Sex? — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
To all the rest of his Absurdities, (for vice is always unreasonable,) he adds one more, who expects that Vertue from another which he… — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
Your glass will not do you half so much service as a serious reflection on your own minds. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
Every one knows, that the mind will not be kept from contemplating what it loves in the midst of crowds and business. Hence come… — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
friendship is a virtue which comprehends all the rest; none being fit for this, who is not adorned with every other virtue. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
We ought as much as we can to endeavour the Perfecting of our Beings, and that we be as happy as possibly we may. — Mary Astell Copy Share Image
How can you be content to be in the world like tulips in a garden, to make a fine show, and be good for… — Mary Astell Copy Share Image