Age Quote by Rolfe Humphries
“Every age probably regards itself as unique in its sexual sophistication, and if we take Ovid as a typical spokesman we should have to conclude that the keynote of his age was elegance. . . . Ovid could not possibly have taken himself, nor be taken for, an Ancient.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Ovid's Metamorphoses, 8 AD
The quote suggests each era sees its sexual culture as uniquely refined, using Ovid as a typical example of elegance in his time.
In simple terms: Each era thinks its sexual culture is uniquely sophisticated.
Recognize cultural relativism in sexual norms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic discussions
- social commentary
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your era view its sexual norms?
- Do we judge past cultures by present standards?
Modern standards may differ, making "uniqueness" subjective.