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Boredom Quote by Stendhal

“A strange effect of marriage, such as the nineteenth century has made it! The boredom of married life inevitably destroys love, when love has preceded marriage. And yet, as a philosopher has observed, it speedily brings about, among people who are rich enough not to have to work, an intense…” quote by Stendhal
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“A strange effect of marriage, such as the nineteenth century has made it! The boredom of married life inevitably destroys love, when love has preceded marriage. And yet, as a philosopher has observed, it speedily brings about, among people who are rich enough not to have to work, an intense boredom with all quiet forms of enjoyment. And it is only dried up hearts, among women, that it does not predispose to love.”

Stendhal

About This Quote

Source Novel: Le Rouge et le Noir, 1830

Marriage can erode love that existed before, especially for those who are wealthy and idle, leading to a pervasive boredom.

In simple terms: Marriage may dull pre‑marital love, causing boredom.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate shared interests to keep love alive.

Themes

marriage love boredom wealth

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • long‑term relationships
  • financial independence
  • personal fulfillment
  • social expectations

Key Concepts

sociology philosophy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can couples maintain excitement over time?
  • What role does personal purpose play in marital happiness?
A Different Perspective

Boredom can also stem from lack of purpose, not just marriage.

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