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Feminism Quote by Edgar Degas

“There are some women who should barely be spoken to; they should only be caressed.” quote by Edgar Degas
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“There are some women who should barely be spoken to; they should only be caressed.”

Edgar Degas

About This Quote

The quote suggests that certain women are so delicate that they deserve only gentle, non-verbal attention, implying a hierarchical view of gender intimacy.

In simple terms: Delicate women merit gentle, non-verbal contact.

Key Takeaway

Treat some women as fragile objects.

Themes

gender hierarchy objectification delicacy social etiquette

Mood

condescending patronizing elitist

Type

aphor social commentary

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • high society gatherings
  • private salons

Key Concepts

gender roles power dynamics

Practical Applications

  • guidelines for polite behavior
  • literary analysis of gendered language

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions about gender does this reflect?
  • How does this language affect perceptions of women's autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Such a view reduces women to passive objects, ignoring their agency and equality.

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