To the Ladies - Analysis | Lady Mary Chudleigh

 To the Ladies - Analysis | Lady Mary Chudleigh

 

 To the Ladies - Analysis

 "To the Ladies" by Lady Mary Chudleigh critiques the traditional roles and expectations imposed on women within the institution of marriage. The poem suggests that the titles of "wife" and "servant" may differ in name but become synonymous in the dynamics of a marriage where the woman is expected to submit and obey. The poem portrays the moment when the marital vow is made, emphasizing the irrevocable nature of the commitment.

The speaker portrays the transformation that occurs in the husband once the marital bond is established. The imagery used, such as becoming "fierce as an Eastern prince," highlights the shift in power dynamics, with the husband assuming a dominating role. The poem underscores the loss of kindness and the prevalence of pride and authority once the marital contract is sealed.

Chudleigh explores the constraints placed on women within this traditional framework. The wife is expected to sign away her freedom, becoming akin to a mute and surrendering her agency. The emphasis on servitude and the husband's god-like status suggests a patriarchal and oppressive structure.

The poet warns against entering this "wretched state" and urges women to value themselves, encouraging them to be proud and to reject the flattery that upholds these societal norms. Chudleigh advocates for women to despise the prescribed roles and expectations, asserting that true wisdom lies in resisting conformity.

In essence, "To the Ladies" serves as a critique of the unequal power dynamics within traditional marriages, challenging the societal expectations imposed on women and advocating for their empowerment and independence. The poem encourages women to be proud, value themselves, and reject subservient roles in order to attain true wisdom. 0 0 0.

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To the Ladies (Text)

Wife and servant are the same,
But only differ in the name:
For when that fatal knot is tied,
Which nothing, nothing can divide:
When she the word obey has said,
And man by law supreme has made,
Then all that's kind is laid aside,
And nothing left but state and pride:
Fierce as an Eastern prince he grows,
And all his innate rigour shows:
Then but to look, to laugh, or speak,
Will the nuptial contract break.
Like mutes, she signs alone must make,
And never any freedom take:
But still be governed by a nod,
And fear her husband as a God:
Him still must serve, him still obey,
And nothing act, and nothing say,
But what her haughty lord thinks fit,
Who with the power, has all the wit.
Then shun, oh! shun that wretched state,
And all the fawning flatterers hate.
Value yourselves, and men despise:
You must be proud, if you'll be wise. 0 0 0.