Body Quote by John Donne
“I call not that virginity a virtue, which resideth onely in the bodies integrity; much less if it be with a purpose of perpetually keeping it: for then it is a most inhumane vice. - But I call that Virginity a virtue which is willing and desirous to yield it self upon honest and lawfull terms, when just reason requireth; and until then, is kept with a modest chastity of body and mind.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Virginity" (excerpt), 1633
Critiques treating virginity as a virtue unless it serves a purposeful, consensual, and rational context.
In simple terms: Virginity is only virtuous when chosen wisely.
Respect autonomy, avoid imposing moral judgments.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- marriage discussions
- ethical debates
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a virtue in modern society?
- How can we honor personal choices without judgment?
Imposing strict moral codes can ignore individual agency.