Asceticism Quote by Dora Russell
“The origin of the stupid ideal of womanhood against which men as well as women to-day are still fighting was the asceticism of the Christian religion; and, unless St. Paul was a woman in disguise, I fail to see how woman is to be blamed for a conception of her place and duty from which she has suffered more than anybody else.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Psychology of Sex", 1920
She argues that the oppressive ideal of womanhood stems from Christian asceticism, and that blaming women for their prescribed roles ignores historical religious influences.
In simple terms: She blames Christian asceticism for harmful gender expectations.
Key Takeaway
Question the religious roots of gender stereotypes.
Themes
gender
religion
history
feminism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- gender studies courses
- historical analysis of religious texts
- feminist activism
Key Concepts
asceticism
patriarchal doctrine
social construction
Questions to Reflect On
- How have religious teachings shaped gender roles?
- Can modern societies untangle these historical influences?
A Different Perspective
The claim may oversimplify complex cultural factors beyond Christianity.
