Skip to content

Acceptance Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“Marriage is to me apostasy, profanation of the sanctuary of my soul, violation of my manhood, sale of my birthright, shameful surrender, ignominious capitulation, acceptance of defeat.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
Download Open image
“Marriage is to me apostasy, profanation of the sanctuary of my soul, violation of my manhood, sale of my birthright, shameful surrender, ignominious capitulation, acceptance of defeat.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903

Shaw sees marriage as a betrayal of personal integrity and self‑ownership, equating it with loss of autonomy.

In simple terms: He views marriage as a surrender of self.

Key Takeaway

Question societal expectations of marriage.

Themes

marriage individualism societal norms gender roles

Mood

critical provocative

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • relationship counseling
  • personal decision‑making
  • cultural critique
  • legal reform

Key Concepts

autonomy identity commitment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do all marriages diminish individuality?
  • How can partnerships respect autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Marriage can also provide partnership and support.

3.1 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by George Bernard Shaw

Explore all 1,640 George Bernard Shaw quotes

More Acceptance quotes

Browse all 3,960 Acceptance quotes