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Law Quote by Thomas Hardy

“Life with a man is more businesslike after it, and money matters work better. And then, you see, if you have rows, and he turns you out of doors, you can get the law to protect you, which you can't otherwise, unless he half-runs you through with a knife, or cracks your noddle with a poker. And if…” quote by Thomas Hardy
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““Life with a man is more businesslike after it, and money matters work better. And then, you see, if you have rows, and he turns you out of doors, you can get the law to protect you, which you can't otherwise, unless he half-runs you through with a knife, or cracks your noddle with a poker. And if he bolts away from you--I say it friendly, as woman to woman, for there's never any knowing what a man med do-- you'll have the sticks o' furniture, and won't be looked upon as a thief.””

Thomas Hardy

About This Quote

Source Novel: Tess of the d'Urbervilles, 1891

Women face legal and financial vulnerability when abandoned by partners, highlighting gender inequality and the need for protective laws.

In simple terms: Women lack protection when men leave them.

Key Takeaway

Seek legal safeguards and support networks.

Themes

gender inequality legal rights financial security

Mood

frustrated determined

Type

social critique feminist

When to use this quote

  • marriage breakdown
  • financial dispute
  • legal aid
  • women's rights

Key Concepts

patriarchy dependency domestic abandonment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies better protect abandoned partners?
  • What reforms could reduce gendered financial vulnerability?
A Different Perspective

Legal protection varies by jurisdiction and may be limited.

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