Abstinence Quote by Angela Carter
““For Justine's conception of virtue is a specifically feminine one in that sexual abstinence plays a large part in it. In common speech, a 'bad boy' may be a thief, or a drunkard, or a liar, and not necessarily just a womaniser. But a 'bad girl' always contains the meaning of a sexually active girl and Justine knows she is good because she does not fuck.””
About This Quote
Justine's virtue is defined by sexual abstinence, contrasting with gendered expectations where "bad boy" is a criminal label but "bad girl" always implies sexual activity.
In simple terms: Virtue tied to chastity, gendered moral double standards.
Key Takeaway
Question gendered moral standards.
Themes
gender
morality
sexuality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
feminist
When to use this quote
- literary analysis
- gender studies
- ethical debates
- personal values
Key Concepts
feminist critique
double standards
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural narratives shape gendered morality?
- Can virtue be redefined beyond sexuality?
A Different Perspective
The definition of virtue can be culturally constructed.
![“I'll try not to let you down and I promise you two and a half months of complete sexual abstinence until April 9 [2006].” quote by Silvio Berlusconi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/804/silvio-berlusconi-13474_abstinence_i-ll-try-not-to-let-you-down-and-i-promi_760984.jpg)
