But, alas! what poor Woman is ever taught that she should have a higher Design than to get her a Husband?
Mary AstellRead
Although it has been said by men of more wit than wisdom, and perhaps more malice than either, that women are naturally incapable of acting prudently, or that they are necessarily determined to folly, I must by no means grant it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Mary Astell challenges the idea that women are incapable of prudence, asserting their capability and intelligence.
In this quote, Mary Astell confronts the societal belief that women lack the ability to act wisely or behave prudently. She suggests that such notions are based not only on wit or malice but are unfounded prejudices against women, advocating for their recognition as rational and capable individuals. By opposing this stereotype, Astell asserts a case for women's intelligence and autonomy.
Themes
WomenPrudenceWisdomGenderEquality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about gender equality, one might quote Mary Astell to emphasize women's capability.
More from Mary Astell
All quotes →Hitherto I have courted Truth with a kind of Romantick Passion, in spite of all Difficulties and Discouragements: for knowledge is thought so unnecessary an Accomplishment for a Woman, that few will give themselves the Trouble to assist us in the Attainment of it.
Mary AstellRead
How can a Man respect his Wife when he has a contemptible Opinion of her and her Sex?
Mary AstellRead
If God had not intended that Women shou'd use their Reason, He wou'd not have given them any, 'for He does nothing in vain.
Mary AstellRead
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