“Men’s vows are women’s traitors!”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“Men’s vows are women’s traitors!”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Two Gentlemen of Verona reflects the disillusionment and betrayal often felt when men’s promises or commitments are broken. “Men’s vows” refers to the promises or oaths that men make, particularly in the context of relationships or love. “Women’s traitors” suggests that these vows, once made, often turn out to be unreliable, deceiving the women who trusted them. The speaker implies that men’s promises are not to be trusted and that women are often left deceived or betrayed by the inconsistency of men’s words.
In modern contexts, this quote can still resonate with the feeling of betrayal or disappointment in relationships when promises or commitments are broken. It reflects the emotional toll of being let down by someone who professed loyalty or affection but failed to follow through. The phrase “women’s traitors” speaks to the historical context where women were often expected to be dependent on men’s promises, and when those promises were broken, it could be seen as a form of powerlessness or victimization.
Ultimately, this quote speaks to the fragility of promises and the emotional risks involved in trusting others, especially when the other party does not hold their word in the same regard. It encourages a cautious view of vows and commitments, highlighting the potential for disappointment when they are not upheld. It also reflects the complexity of human relationships, where promises are not always guaranteed to be kept, leading to heartache or betrayal.
