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Behave Quote by Arcangela Tarabotti

“Stricken by a guilty conscience, some men will say that I speak with excessive temerity about all men in general. They are greatly mistaken. If they behave justly, they will be protected from my attacks and those of others. I separate the just from the wicked (who are the subject of my discourse)…” quote by Arcangela Tarabotti
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“Stricken by a guilty conscience, some men will say that I speak with excessive temerity about all men in general. They are greatly mistaken. If they behave justly, they will be protected from my attacks and those of others. I separate the just from the wicked (who are the subject of my discourse), since not all men are bad and not all women are good.”

Arcangela Tarabotti

About This Quote

Source Treatise: The Defensio of Women, 1651

The author argues that moral behavior shields individuals from criticism, separating the just from the wicked rather than condemning all humanity.

In simple terms: Good conduct protects you from attacks; not everyone is bad.

Key Takeaway

Live justly to avoid criticism.

Themes

morality justice gender criticism

Mood

thoughtful defensive

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • public discourse
  • legal defense

Key Concepts

ethical behavior social judgment gender roles

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you distinguish just actions from societal judgments?
  • Can fairness truly protect against all attacks?
A Different Perspective

Critics may still target the just despite moral conduct.

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