It is vain to expect virtue from women till they are in some degree independent of men; nay, it is vain to expect that strength of natural affection which would make them good wives and mothers. Whilst they are absolutely dependent on their husbands they will be cunning, mean, and selfish.


Ch. 9 - A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (1792)

Mary Wollstonecraft Quotes

It is vain to expect virtue from women till they are in some degree independent of men; nay, it is vain to expect that strength of natural affection...

It is vain to expect virtue from women till they are in some degree independent of men; nay, it is vain to expect that strength of natural affection...

It is vain to expect virtue from women till they are in some degree independent of men; nay, it is vain to expect that strength of natural affection...

It is vain to expect virtue from women till they are in some degree independent of men; nay, it is vain to expect that strength of natural affection...