Skip to content

Femme Quote by Honore de Balzac

“Un homme n'a jamais pu e lever sa ma|"tresse jusqu'a' lui; mais une femme place toujours son amant aussi haut qu'elle. A man can never elevate his mistress to his rank, but a woman can always place her lover as high as she.” quote by Honore de Balzac
Download Open image
“Un homme n'a jamais pu e lever sa ma|"tresse jusqu'a' lui; mais une femme place toujours son amant aussi haut qu'elle. A man can never elevate his mistress to his rank, but a woman can always place her lover as high as she.”

Honore de Balzac

About This Quote

Source Novel: Le Père Goriot (1835) by Honoré de Balzac

A man cannot raise his lover to his own status, but a woman can elevate her lover to her level, highlighting gender dynamics in power and affection.

In simple terms: Women can lift lovers higher than men.

Key Takeaway

Recognize differing power dynamics in relationships.

Themes

gender power relationships society

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage negotiations
  • career advancement
  • social mobility

Key Concepts

social hierarchy gender roles affection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do power dynamics differ by gender?
  • Can love truly equalize status?
A Different Perspective

The statement generalizes complex social interactions and may reinforce stereotypes.

2.4 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Honore de Balzac

Explore all 793 Honore de Balzac quotes

More Femme quotes

Browse all 60 Femme quotes