"Some Reflections Upon Marriage" by Mary Astell is a treatise on the institution of marriage written in the early 18th century. This work delves into the complexities and societal expectations surrounding marriage, especially from a woman's perspective, questioning the notion of marital bliss and the sacrifices it entails. Astell's reflections aim to correct the misconceptions and abuses that arise within the institution of marriage, particularly focusing on the roles and choices of women. The opening of the treatise establishes Astell's intent to address the unhappy consequences of ill-considered marriages, contrasting idealized views of matrimony with the often harsh realities women face. Astell portrays the struggles of women forced into loveless unions or those who marry out of societal pressure, highlighting the emotional toll and moral dilemmas experienced. In this early portion, she emphasizes the importance of virtue and reason over mere affection or social gain when considering marriage, advocating for self-awareness and prudence in both choice and conduct among potential spouses. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
These books are free to read. Each is in the public domain in the United States; check your own country's rules before you copy or share one.
