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About this quote

What does it mean?
Balzac claims that men consider themselves inferior to women.
In plain terms
Men think they are worth less than women.
What can you take from it?
Challenge gender stereotypes that devalue any group.

Where it applies

  • in patriarchal societies
  • during debates on gender roles

Putting it to work

  • promote gender equality
  • highlight women's contributions

Questions to consider

  • Why would men claim inferiority?
  • How does this affect gender relations?

Another view

It contradicts historical patriarchal norms and may be ironic.

More from Honore de Balzac

  1. Il y a une maniere de dire ce mot rien entre amants, qui signifie tout le contraire.

    Permalink to quote #76

  2. Aucun homme ne s'arrache aux douceurs du sommeil matinal pour ecouter un troubadour en veste, une fille seule se reveille a un chant d'amour.

    Permalink to quote #78

  3. D'ailleurs, le suicide regnait alors a Paris; ne doit-il pas etre le dernier mot des societes incredules?

    Permalink to quote #75

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