If all men are born free, why is it that all women are born slaves?

- Mary Astell

The Span of Life is too short to be trifled away in unconcerning and unprofitable Matters.

- Mary Astell

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 Astell

Women are from their very infancy debarred those Advantages with the want of which they are afterwards reproached.

- Mary Astell

How can you be content to be in the world like tulips in a garden, to make a fine show, and be good for nothing.

- Mary Astell

Truth is strong, and sometime or other will prevail.

- Mary Astell

For certainly there cannot be a higher pleasure than to think that we love and are beloved by the most amiable and best Being.

- Mary Astell

A woman indeed can't properly be said to choose, all that is allowed her, is to refuse or accept what is offered.

- Mary Astell

We must Think what we Say, and Mean what we Profess.

- Mary Astell