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Animated Quote by Jane Austen

“Her companion's discourse now sunk from its hitherto animated pitch, to nothing more than a short, decisive sentence of praise or condemnation on the face of every woman they met; and Catherine, after listening and agreeing as long as she could,with all the civility and deference of the youthful…” quote by Jane Austen
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“Her companion's discourse now sunk from its hitherto animated pitch, to nothing more than a short, decisive sentence of praise or condemnation on the face of every woman they met; and Catherine, after listening and agreeing as long as she could,with all the civility and deference of the youthful female mind, fearful of hazarding an opinion of its own in opposition to that of a self-assured man, especially where the beauty of her own sex is concerned, ventured at length to vary the subject...”

Jane Austen

About This Quote

Source Novel: Pride and Prejudice, 1813

Catherine feels pressured to echo men's opinions about women, fearing to voice her own view, especially on female beauty.

In simple terms: She is hesitant to express her own thoughts about women.

Key Takeaway

Speak your mind despite social pressure.

Themes

gender roles social conformity voice beauty courage

Mood

anxious reflective determined

Type

literary feminist social commentary

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • debates on gender
  • personal conversations
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

feminist critique self‑expression power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does fear of contradicting men affect women's confidence?
  • When can you assert your own perspective?
A Different Perspective

Her deference may limit authentic dialogue and reinforce stereotypes.

3.3 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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