Destruction Quote by Karl Kraus
“It is regarded as normal to consecrate virginity in general and to lust for its destruction in particular.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Last Days of Europe, 1935
The statement critiques societal hypocrisy that sanctifies virginity while simultaneously eroticizing its loss.
In simple terms: Society praises purity but also fetishizes its destruction.
Key Takeaway
Question the double standards around sexuality.
Themes
hypocrisy
sexuality
morality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- media analysis
- personal relationships
- education
- policy debates
Key Concepts
feminism
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this double standard affect personal identity?
- What cultural factors sustain this paradox?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook individuals who genuinely value virginity beyond societal pressure.
![“[N]o language has ever had a word for a virgin man.” quote by Will Durant](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/857/will-durant-948_double-standards_n-o-language-has-ever-had-a-word-for-a-v_120345.jpg)
![“No visiting angel, or explorer from another planet, could have guessed that this bland orb [Earth] teemed with vermin, with world-mastering, self-torturing, incipiently angelic beasts.” quote by Olaf Stapledon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d65/olaf-stapledon-9950_angel_no-visiting-angel-or-explorer-from-anoth_12107.jpg)