Achievement Quote by Hilda Scott
“The 'leisured' wife was a badge of achievement, the ornament to hard work and virtue for families on the way up.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Social History of the 19th Century, 1910
The “leisured” wife symbolized status, reflecting societal values that equate a with moral virtue.
In simple terms: A comfortable wife was a status sign.
Key Takeaway
Question how status defines worth.
Themes
gender roles
status
virtue
history
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- marriage
- social mobility
- family expectations
- women’s labor
Key Concepts
sociology
feminist theory
class studies
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect modern gender expectations?
- What alternative measures of achievement exist?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing leisure can mask underlying inequalities.
