40. Women from fourteen years old are flattered with the title of "mistresses" by the men.
Therefore, perceiving that they are regarded only as qualified to give the men pleasure, they begin to adorn themselves, and in that to place ill their hopes.
We should, therefore, fix our attention on making them sensible that they are valued for the appearance of decent, modest and discreet behavior.
Book: Handbook
Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Author: Epictetus
Chapter: Chapter Forty (Chapter 40 of 53)
Sections in this chapter:
Section 1:
40. Women from fourteen years old are flattered with the title of "mistresses" by the men.
Therefore, perceiving that they are regarded only as qualified to give the men pleasure, they begin to adorn themselves, and in that to place ill their hopes.
We should, therefore, fix our attention on making them sensible that they are valued for the appearance of decent, modest and discreet behavior.