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In antiquity, a woman might be an object of worship or desire, but never of love.
Octavio Paz
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects on the historical perception of women as objects rather than beings capable of true love.

Octavio Paz highlights that in ancient times, women were often seen either as objects of worship or desire, but not as individuals worthy of genuine love. This perspective underscores the limitations placed on women's identities and roles, suggesting a need for deeper recognition of their emotional capabilities and humanity.

Themes

LoveWomenWorshipDesireIdentity

In practice

Example use cases

During an international women's day speech, one might cite this quote to discuss the historical view of women.

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Man, even man debased by the neocapitalism and pseudosocialism of our time, is a marvelous being because he sometimes speaks. Language is the mark, the sign, not of his fall but of his original innocence. Through the Word we may regain the lost kingdom and recover powers we possessed in the far-distant past.
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