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Affected Quote by William Hazlitt

“The affected modesty of most women is a decoy for the generous, the delicate, and unsuspecting; while the artful, the bold, and unfeeling either see or break through its slender disguises.” quote by William Hazlitt
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“The affected modesty of most women is a decoy for the generous, the delicate, and unsuspecting; while the artful, the bold, and unfeeling either see or break through its slender disguises.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Influence of Modesty, 1820

Women’s modesty can be a protective façade, but the truly perceptive or ruthless can see through it.

In simple terms: Modesty can hide true intentions; some see through it.

Key Takeaway

Be aware of surface appearances.

Themes

gender dynamics perception deception

Mood

analytical critical

Type

observational psychological

When to use this quote

  • social interactions
  • dating
  • political negotiations
  • business presentations

Key Concepts

modesty guise power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should we trust modesty?
  • What risks arise from seeing through façades?
A Different Perspective

Assuming all modesty is deceptive can be unfair.

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