Danced Quote by August Strindberg
““He liked the girls, liked to hold them around the waist, felt like a man when he did. But as for talking with them, no, no! Then he felt as though he were dealing with another species of human being, in some cases a higher one, in others a lower. He secretly admired the weak, pale, little girl and had picked her to be his wife. That was still the only way he could think of a woman - as a wife. He danced in a very chaste and proper manner, but he heard awful stories about his pals, stories he didn't understand until later. They could dance the waltz backwards around the room in a very indecent way, and they told naughty stories about the girls.””
About This Quote
Source Play: “The Father” (1907) – dramatic monologue
The narrator’s conflicted view of women reflects societal double standards, seeing them as both admired and alien, highlighting gender bias and moral hypocrisy.
In simple terms: He sees women through a contradictory, biased lens.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge gender stereotypes.
Themes
gender roles
double standards
sexual morality
Mood
critical
provocative
Type
dramatic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- theatrical performance
- literary analysis
- social commentary
Key Concepts
feminist critique
psychology of desire
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions about gender does the speaker reveal?
- How does this perspective affect his relationships?
A Different Perspective
His portrayal reinforces harmful stereotypes rather than questioning them.
