Bears Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“For a strolling damsel a doubtful reputation bears.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Der Spaziergang”, 1771
A wandering woman’s uncertain reputation invites scrutiny.
In simple terms: A wandering woman faces judgment.
Key Takeaway
Beware judgments based on appearances.
Themes
reputation
gender
social norms
wanderer
judgment
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
poetic
analytical
When to use this quote
- Women traveling alone
- public figures dealing with rumors
- students analyzing gender bias
Key Concepts
Feminist theory
social psychology
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reputation affect personal freedom?
- What modern parallels exist?
A Different Perspective
Context of 18th‑century norms may differ today.
![“For a strolling damsel a doubtful reputation bears. [Ger., Denn ein wanderndes Madchen ist immer von schwankendem Rufe.]” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bbd/johann-wolfgang-von-goethe-36_bears_for-a-strolling-damsel-a-doubtful-reputa_2697927.jpg)
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)
