Afraid Quote by Thomas Hardy
““I have no fear of men, as such, nor of their books. I have mixed with them--one or two of them particularly-- almost as one of their own sex. I mean I have not felt about them as most women are taught to feel--to be on their guard against attacks on their virtue; for no average man-- no man short of a sensual savage--will molest a woman by day or night, at home or abroad, unless she invites him. Until she says by a look 'Come on' he is always afraid to, and if you never say it, or look it, he never comes.””
About This Quote
The narrator claims she feels no fear of men or their writings, having mixed with them as equals, and believes men only act when invited.
In simple terms: She feels safe with men unless she invites them.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions about gender and safety.
Themes
gender
power
social norms
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
feminist
philosophical
When to use this quote
- social interactions
- literary critique
- personal safety
Key Concepts
feminism
sexual politics
agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societal expectations shape women's perceptions of safety?
- What responsibilities do men have regardless of invitation?
A Different Perspective
This view may overlook systemic power imbalances.
