Quote by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

A woman cannot do the thing she ought, which means whatever perfect thing she can, in life, in art, in science, but she fears to let the perfect action take her part and rest there: she must prove what she can do before she does it, -- prate of woman's rights, of woman's mission, woman's function, till the men (who are prating, too, on their side) cry, A woman's function plainly is... to talk. Poor souls, they are very reasonably vexed!


A woman cannot do the thing she ought, which means whatever

Summary

This quote suggests that women are often forced to prove themselves and justify their actions, while men are free to take action without explanation. It highlights the frustration of women who are expected to talk about their capabilities and purpose instead of actually utilizing their skills and potential. The quote also emphasizes the unfairness of society's expectations, as men are sarcastically portrayed as being upset that women have the audacity to express themselves and assert their rights.

Topics

Women
By Elizabeth Barrett Browning
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