Marriage: a social unit consisting of a master, a mistress, and two slaves, totaling two people.
Marriage: a social unit consisting of a master, a mistress, and two slaves, totaling two people.
This quote humorously critiques traditional views of marriage by portraying it as an unequal institution. It suggests that within this social unit, there is a dynamic of power and subservience, where one partner (the "master") holds authority over the other (the "mistress"), while both are viewed as "slaves" to the relationship and societal expectations. The use of the word "slaves" implies a sense of obligation or lack of freedom, highlighting that the couple may lose their individuality or autonomy within the marriage. Overall, the quote challenges the romanticized notion of marriage, presenting it instead as a complex arrangement influenced by power dynamics and social roles.
Quote By: Ambrose Bierce