Meaning: The quote "Saw a wedding in the church. It was strange to see what delight we married people have to see these poor fools decoyed into our condition." by Samuel Pepys reflects a certain cynicism and wry amusement towards the institution of marriage. Samuel Pepys was an English naval administrator and Member of Parliament who is now most famous for his diaries. His diaries provide a vivid and personal account of the major events of his time, including the London plague and the Great Fire of London. He wrote in a candid and often humorous style, offering insights into the social, political, and cultural aspects of 17th century England.

In this particular quote, Pepys seems to be commenting on the amusement that married people feel when witnessing the marriage of others. The phrase "poor fools decoyed into our condition" suggests a sense of resignation or even regret about the state of marriage. Pepys' use of the word "decoyed" implies a sense of being lured or trapped, and the phrase "our condition" indicates that he sees marriage as a somewhat burdensome state of being.

It's important to note that Pepys' observation should be viewed within the context of the time in which he lived. Marriage in the 17th century was often more of a social and economic contract than a union based on romantic love. Marriages were frequently arranged for reasons of political alliances, financial stability, and the continuation of family lines, rather than for the personal happiness of the individuals involved. As such, Pepys' commentary can be seen as a reflection of the societal attitudes towards marriage during his era.

Pepys' own experiences with marriage may have influenced his perspective. His diaries reveal that he had a complex and often tumultuous relationship with his wife, Elizabeth. Their marriage was marked by periods of estrangement and conflict, which may have colored Pepys' views on the institution of marriage as a whole.

Despite the seemingly cynical tone of the quote, it's worth noting that Pepys himself was a product of his time and culture. His diaries indicate that he also experienced moments of genuine affection and companionship within his marriage. Therefore, while he may have expressed a certain level of resignation or disillusionment with marriage in this particular quote, it's not necessarily indicative of his overall attitude towards the institution.

In conclusion, Samuel Pepys' quote about marriage reflects a certain cynicism and resignation toward the institution, but it should be understood within the context of the social and cultural norms of the 17th century. Pepys' personal experiences may have influenced his perspective, and his diaries offer a valuable insight into the complexities of marriage and relationships during his time.