Art is the daughter of freedom.
While the womanly god demands our veneration, the godlike woman kindles our love; but while we allow ourselves to melt in the celestial loveliness, the celestial self-sufficiency holds us back in awe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the duality of admiration and love towards women, highlighting how their divine qualities can inspire both reverence and affection.
Friedrich Schiller's quote reflects on the complex feelings intertwined with admiration for women. He suggests that while we honor the divine attributes of femininity that evoke awe and respect, it's the human qualities of women that stir our love. However, there is an acknowledgment that this reverence can sometimes create a barrier, preventing us from fully embracing the love that is possible due to the powerful presence of the womanly ideal. Schiller illustrates the tension between admiration and emotional connection in our interactions with women.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a discussion about women's roles in society at a seminar.
More from Friedrich Schiller
All quotes →There is no such thing as chance; and what seem to us merest accident springs from the deepest source of destiny.
Who dares nothing, need hope for nothing.
As noble Art has survived noble nature, so too she marches ahead of it, fashioning and awakening by her inspiration. Before Truth sends her triumphant light into the depths of the heart, imagination catches its rays, and the peaks of humanity will be glowing when humid night still lingers in the valleys.
Wise to resolve, patient to perform.
When you are not happy with your life, always think that someone is happy simply because you exist
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There is no glory in star or blossom till looked upon by a loving eye; There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by.