Family Quote by Phyllis T. Smith
““In Rome, a woman’s power, however circumspectly exercised, arouses revulsion. Every death in my family circle has been laid at my door.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The House of Mirth, Edith Wharton, 1905
A woman’s limited power in Rome provokes disgust, and personal tragedies are blamed on her.
In simple terms: Female influence in Rome is despised; family deaths are blamed on her.
Recognize how gender bias can distort blame.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- personal relationships
- legal contexts
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does powerlessness affect perception of guilt?
- Can societal norms shift blame onto individuals?
Historical setting limits direct applicability to modern societies.