Aly Quote by Tamora Pierce
““A noble maiden must convey dignity and chastity without appearing to think about either one. Let common-born girls tussle in the hay with their loutish swains. The future of your family's bloodline and your future lord's bloodline should be your greatest concern. Let no man but one of your family embrace you. Let no man but your betrothed kiss any more than your fingertips; let your betrothed kiss you only on fingers, cheek, or forehead, lest he think you unchaste. And never allow yourself to be alone with a man, to safeguard the precious jewel of you reputation. No well-born maiden ever suffered from keeping her suitors at arm's length. Your chastity will make you a prize to you future husband's house and an honor to your own." - form Advice to a Young Noblewoman, by Lady Fronia of Whitehall (in Maren) given to Ally on her twelfth birthday by her godmother, Queen Thayet””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Song of the Lioness, 1997 (advice excerpt)
A noblewoman must protect her reputation through strict chastity and controlled interactions, prioritizing family alliances over personal desire.
In simple terms: Maintain reputation through controlled behavior.
Key Takeaway
Guard reputation by limiting intimacy.
Themes
honor
reputation
social constraints
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
literary
historical
When to use this quote
- courtship
- marriage negotiations
- social gatherings
Key Concepts
gender roles
family duty
political alliances
Questions to Reflect On
- Is reputation more important than personal freedom?
- How do cultural norms shape personal choices?
A Different Perspective
Modern values may view such restrictions as oppressive.
![“I will be known forever as the Puppy who chased a cutpurse and caught fish garbage instead. My descendants will pretend I'm not in their bloodline. No – no one will want to make descendants with me. [from Beka Cooper's journal of her first day as a new Dog i.e. cop]” quote by Tamora Pierce](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d5/tamora-pierce-935_beka-cooper_i-will-be-known-forever-as-the-puppy-who_17776.jpg)
