Mary Wollstonecraft Quotes Flashcards
“I do not wish them [women] to have power over men; but over themselves.”
A Vindication of the Rights of Women
Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ explores themes of power, control and the consequences of trying to play god. This quote reflects Wollstonecraft’s emphasis on women’s self-empowerment and control, themes that resonate in Shelley’s exploration of unchecked power.
“The beginning is always today.”
“Maria: or, The Wrongs of Woman”
Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ touches upon the idea of creation and the consequences of one’s actions. This quote can be linked to the novel’s exploration of the consequences of actions taken in the past and the constant pursuit of progress and change of scientists.
“I do not wish to give women a ‘man’s education,’ but rather would teach them to be individuals.”
A Vindication of the Rights of Women
Mary Shelley challenged societal norms in ‘Frankenstein’ portraying the consequences of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of knowledge. Wollstonecraft’s quote aligns with Shelley’s pursuit of individuality and education for women, emphasising the need for personal development.
“Strengthen the female mind by enlarging it, and there will be an end to blind obedience.”
A Vindication of the Rights of Women
In ‘Frankenstein’, the book shows the problems that come from mindlessly following society’s rules. Wollstonecraft’s quote agrees, saying that educating and empowering women will stop this kind of thoughtless obedience. Both ideas challenge the idea of blindly following what society expects.
“A great proportion of the misery and wanders, in hideous forms around the world, is allowed to rise from the negligence of parents”
A Vindication of the Rights of Women
Victor Frankenstein, parallels Wollstonecraft’s assertion that parental negligence can lead to profound unhappiness and consequences, highlighting the broader societal implications of irresponsible upbringing and care.
“It is of great importance to observe that the character of every man is, in some degree, formed by his profession.”
A Vindication of the Rights of Women
Wollstonecraft emphasises the impact of a person’s occupation on their character. She suggests that just as a man’s character is influenced by his profession, women’s characters are shaped by their societal role, which, in her view, confines them to being primarily beautiful and catering to men’s desires.
