Sentimental Education Women and Femininity Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #7

For the Citizen admired virtuous women, and had a great esteem for Madame Arnoux. (2.18.33)

Frederick appreciates that Regimbart sees Madame Arnoux as the epitome of feminine virtue. And good thing, too. Remember what happened when Cisy opened his mouth to say otherwise?

Quote #8

He mingled in society, and he conceived attachments to other women. (2.19.4)

After Frederick has given up hope for Madame Arnoux, he begins to turn to other women. But like his affairs with Madame Dambreuse and Rosanette, nothing ever quite succeeds. For all his obsession with women, he's not all that great once he's got 'em.

Quote #9

"At my age!—he—Frederick! Ah! no woman has ever been loved as I have been. No! Where is the use in being young? What do I care about them, indeed? I despise them—all those women who come here!" (2.19.55)

At the bitter end, Madame Arnoux comes to confess her feelings for Frederick. At this point, though, he can't corrupt his dream of her by making their affair a reality. In his eyes, she's perfect—and he'd rather keep it that way.