Adorable Quote by Elizabeth Gaskell
““I just wished to know if you mean to marry the girl. Spite of what you said of her lightness, I ha' known her long enough to be sure she'll make a noble wife for any one, let him be what he may; and I mean to stand by her like a brother; and if you mean rightly, you'll not think the worse on me for what I've now said; and if--but no, I'll not say what I'll do to the man who wrongs a hair of her head. He shall rue it to the longest day he lives, that's all. Now, sir, what I ask of you is this. If you mean fair and honourable by her, well and good: but if not, for your own sake as well as hers, leave her alone, and never speak to her more.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell, 1854
A speaker urges a man to respect a woman's autonomy and warns against harming her, emphasizing honor and protection.
In simple terms: Protect a woman's honor and stay away if intentions are bad.
Key Takeaway
Respect and protect her dignity.
Themes
honor
protection
autonomy
Mood
serious
protective
Type
advice
ethical
When to use this quote
- courtship
- family advice
- personal boundaries
Key Concepts
ethical duty
gender respect
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your actions honor others?
- What safeguards protect vulnerable individuals?
A Different Perspective
If the man is not honorable, the warning may be ignored.
