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Ibsen Quote by William Somerset Maugham

“He shook his fist at her. He was the mildest of creatures and ventured upon no action of his life without consulting her. “No, Helene, I tell you this,” he shouted. “I would sooner my daughters were lying dead at my feet than see them listening to the garbage of that shameless fellow.” The play…” quote by William Somerset Maugham
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““He shook his fist at her. He was the mildest of creatures and ventured upon no action of his life without consulting her. “No, Helene, I tell you this,” he shouted. “I would sooner my daughters were lying dead at my feet than see them listening to the garbage of that shameless fellow.” The play was The Doll’s House and the author was Henrik Ibsen.””

William Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Play: A Doll’s House, 1879

A man’s devotion to his wife drives him to extreme protective actions, even violent, reflecting deep emotional dependence.

In simple terms: He would do anything to protect his wife, even threaten violence.

Key Takeaway

Consider healthier ways to protect loved ones.

Themes

love protectiveness gender roles

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

literary dramatic

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • family conflict
  • ethical dilemmas
  • psychological drama

Key Concepts

dependency violence emotional control

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is extreme protectiveness ever justified?
  • What boundaries should exist in love?
A Different Perspective

Protective love can become oppressive and harmful.

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