Submission to Wife Government by Thiruvalluvar
The work critiques the dynamics of marital relationships, particularly emphasizing the detrimental effects of excessive devotion to one's wife. It argues that men who prioritize their wives above all else are unlikely to achieve greatness or respect in society. The text portrays such men as weak and shameful, suggesting that their infatuation leads to a loss of dignity and ambition. It highlights the contrast between those who are submissive to their wives and those who pursue significant endeavors. The former are depicted as lacking in moral and social standing, unable to fulfill their responsibilities or gain the esteem of others. The narrative suggests that true strength and respect come from maintaining a balance in relationships, where ambition and personal integrity are not compromised by romantic infatuation. The work further asserts that men who focus on their aspirations and maintain their independence from their wives are favored by fortune and are more likely to achieve success. It warns against the dangers of allowing personal relationships to overshadow one's goals and responsibilities, advocating for a more balanced approach to love and ambition. Overall, the text serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of excessive devotion in marital relationships, promoting the idea that true greatness lies in self-control and the pursuit of higher ideals.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophical, Self-Help, Sociological · 258 words
First lines
Those that dote upon their wives will not attain to greatness: those that have the ambition to do great things turn away from such seduction.
Behold the man who hath an abject infatuation for his wife: in the very midst of his prosperity he will be a byword among men, and he will have to hide his face in shame.
The weakling who humbleth himself before his wife will always be ashamed to show his face before the worthy.
Behold the salvation-less wretch that trembleth before his wife: his talents will never be held in any esteem.
What this Textopian page supports
Submission to Wife Government is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2000 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thiruvalluvar
- Date: 2000 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Self-Help, Sociological, Literary Criticism, Moral
- Length: 258 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Submission to Wife Government by Thiruvalluvar
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
- Folly by Thiruvalluvar
- The Friendship That Injureth by Thiruvalluvar
- The Blessings Of A Good Helpmate by Thiruvalluvar
- Purity Of Action by Thiruvalluvar
- Respectability Of Birth by Thiruvalluvar
- Non Desiring Of Another Mans Wife by Thiruvalluvar
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep themes of power dynamics and personal ambition in relation to marital relationships.
- Self-Help — It offers advice on personal conduct and the consequences of submission in relationships.
- Sociological — The work examines societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles and authority.
- Literary Criticism — It critiques the notion of submission in marriage and its impact on personal integrity and societal respect.
Tags
Tamil Literature · Ancient Texts · Philosophical Treatise · Social Commentary · Marriage and Relationships · Wife's Role · Husband's Responsibility · Submission and Surrender · Power Dynamics · Feminist Themes · Patriarchal Society · Cultural Norms