Meaning: Maria Callas, a renowned opera singer, expressed this quote during an interview, and it reflects her desire to be perceived as a complex and multi-dimensional individual rather than being pigeonholed into simplistic categories of good or evil. In this quote, Callas asserts her identity as a woman and a serious artist, rejecting the conventional dichotomy of angels and devils. Through this statement, she calls for a more nuanced and comprehensive evaluation of her character and work, emphasizing the importance of recognizing her humanity and artistic abilities.

Maria Callas was a Greek-American soprano who achieved widespread acclaim for her powerful and emotive performances in the world of opera. Throughout her career, she garnered attention not only for her exceptional vocal talents but also for her passionate and dramatic interpretations of her roles. Callas's artistry transcended the confines of traditional operatic performances, as she infused her portrayals with intense emotion and depth, captivating audiences and critics alike.

The quote reflects Callas's assertive stance regarding how she should be perceived and evaluated. By stating, "I am not an angel and do not pretend to be," she disavows any attempt to conform to idealized or idealistic notions of purity or flawlessness. Instead, she acknowledges her imperfections and complexities, aligning herself with the reality of being a human being with multifaceted qualities and experiences. Callas's refusal to conform to a saintly or angelic image challenges the expectations often imposed on public figures, especially women, to embody unattainable standards of perfection.

Similarly, when she declares, "But I am not the devil either," Callas rejects the polar opposite of the angelic archetype. By emphasizing that she is not to be categorized as inherently malevolent or wicked, she resists the reductive labeling often imposed on individuals who do not conform to societal norms or expectations. This assertion underscores her rejection of being vilified or demonized, advocating instead for a fair and balanced assessment of her character and artistic contributions.

The crux of Callas's message lies in her declaration, "I am a woman and a serious artist, and I would like so to be judged." Here, she articulates her desire to be recognized and evaluated based on the entirety of her identity and accomplishments. By emphasizing her womanhood, she confronts the gendered expectations and biases that often influence perceptions of female artists. In the male-dominated world of opera and classical music, Callas's insistence on being acknowledged as a woman and a serious artist serves as a powerful assertion of her right to be evaluated on the basis of her talent, dedication, and artistic merit rather than being reduced to superficial or reductive labels.

In conclusion, Maria Callas's quote encapsulates her assertive stance against simplistic categorizations and societal expectations. It reflects her demand for a more nuanced and equitable appraisal of her identity as a woman and her achievements as a serious artist. By rejecting the binary categorizations of angels and devils, Callas challenges the limitations imposed by such narrow archetypes, advocating instead for a holistic and fair evaluation of her humanity and artistic contributions. Her words continue to resonate as a powerful assertion of individuality, complexity, and the right to be judged on one's own terms.