Meaning: The quote "As for our garments, my Mother did not only delight to see us neat and cleanly, fine and gay, but rich and costly: maintaining us to the heighth of her estate, but not beyond it" by Margaret Cavendish, provides insight into the author's upbringing and the values instilled in her by her mother. Margaret Cavendish was an English noblewoman, philosopher, poet, and writer who lived in the 17th century. The quote reflects the importance placed on appearance and social status during this period and offers a glimpse into the societal expectations and values of the time.

In the quote, Cavendish describes how her mother not only valued cleanliness and neatness in their attire but also placed great emphasis on wearing garments that were rich, costly, and befitting of their social standing. This suggests that outward appearances and material wealth were significant considerations for her mother, as she sought to maintain her children's appearance in line with the family's social and economic status. The phrase "to the heighth of her estate, but not beyond it" indicates that while Cavendish's mother valued dressing her children in a manner befitting their status, she also exercised restraint and did not exceed the limits of their financial means.

Cavendish's upbringing as described in the quote reflects the values and expectations of the aristocratic society in which she lived. During the 17th century, clothing and fashion were highly symbolic and played a crucial role in signaling one's social status and wealth. The wealthy and noble class often used extravagant and expensive clothing to display their affluence and distinguish themselves from the lower classes. As a result, maintaining a certain standard of dress was not only a matter of personal preference but also a reflection of one's social standing and familial reputation.

The quote also sheds light on the role of women, particularly mothers, in upholding and transmitting these societal values to their children. Cavendish's mother's emphasis on her children's appearance and the careful balance between elegance and financial prudence illustrates the role of women in overseeing the social and cultural education of their offspring. In aristocratic circles, women were often responsible for managing the household, including matters related to clothing and appearance, and were expected to ensure that their families presented themselves in a manner befitting their status.

Furthermore, the quote provides a glimpse into Cavendish's own perspective on the values instilled in her by her mother. It suggests that she internalized the importance of outward appearances and the significance of maintaining a certain level of material wealth and social standing. This upbringing likely influenced her understanding of social hierarchies and the role of material possessions in shaping perceptions of identity and social position.

In conclusion, Margaret Cavendish's quote offers valuable insights into the significance of clothing, appearance, and social status in 17th-century England, as well as the role of women in shaping and upholding these values. It provides a window into the societal expectations and cultural norms of the time, highlighting the importance of outward appearances and material wealth in signaling one's place within the social hierarchy. Moreover, the quote illuminates the influence of maternal guidance in shaping an individual's understanding of societal values and expectations.