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Duchess Quote by Marcel Proust

“The variations of the Duchess's judgment spared no one, except her husband. He alone had never been in love with her, in him she had always felt an iron character, indifferent to the caprices that she displayed, contemptuous of her beauty, violent, of a will that would never bend, the sort under…” quote by Marcel Proust
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““The variations of the Duchess's judgment spared no one, except her husband. He alone had never been in love with her, in him she had always felt an iron character, indifferent to the caprices that she displayed, contemptuous of her beauty, violent, of a will that would never bend, the sort under which alone nervous people can find tranquillity.””

Marcel Proust

About This Quote

Source Novel: In Search of Lost Time, Volume 3, 1919

A woman's steadfast, unyielding nature isolates her, as only those with nervous dispositions find peace in such rigidity.

In simple terms: A rigid personality can create isolation, appealing only to certain people.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the cost of inflexibility.

Themes

isolation rigidity gender dynamics

Mood

melancholic analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • personal relationships
  • character study
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

psychology social expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives a person to become inflexible?
  • How does rigidity affect relationships?
A Different Perspective

Rigid traits may prevent personal growth.

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