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Marriage Quote by Mary Astell

“How can a Man respect his Wife when he has a contemptible Opinion of her and her Sex?” quote by Mary Astell
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“How can a Man respect his Wife when he has a contemptible Opinion of her and her Sex?”

Mary Astell

About This Quote

Source Essay: "A Serious Proposal to the Ladies", 1694

A woman should respect her husband only if she also respects herself and rejects demeaning views about women.

In simple terms: Respect requires mutual dignity.

Key Takeaway

Demand respect and reject contempt.

Themes

gender equality marriage self‑respect

Mood

thoughtful empowering

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marital counseling
  • education
  • advocacy
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

feminism ethical relationships social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • What beliefs limit mutual respect?
  • How can couples foster equal esteem?
A Different Perspective

Contempt may stem from deeper societal biases.

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