Ability Quote by Angela Carter
“Mother is in herself a concrete denial of the idea of sexual pleasure since her sexuality has been placed at the service of reproductive function alone. She is the perpetually violated passive principle; her autonomy has been sufficiently eroded by the presence within her of the embryo she brought to term. Her unthinking ability to reproduce, which is her pride, is, since it is beyond choice, not a specific virtue of her own.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter, 1979
The quote critiques how motherhood is socially framed as a reproductive role that suppresses a woman's sexual autonomy and reduces her identity to bearing children.
In simple terms: Motherhood is shown as limiting women's sexual freedom.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge limiting narratives about women's bodies.
Themes
gender
reproduction
autonomy
sexuality
power
Mood
critical
reflective
provocative
Type
philosophical
feminist
social commentary
When to use this quote
- parenting discussions
- gender studies seminars
- activist workshops
- personal reflection
- healthcare counseling
Key Concepts
patriarchal structures
identity reduction
body politics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does society shape women's view of motherhood?
- Can motherhood be redefined beyond reproduction?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook mothers who find empowerment and pleasure in motherhood.
