Meaning: The quote "Gamesters and highwaymen are generally very good to their whores, but they are very devils to their wives" by John Gay, a poet from the 18th century, reflects a social commentary on the treatment of women during that time period. The quote suggests that men who engage in vices such as gambling and criminal activities may treat their mistresses or prostitutes with kindness and generosity, while being cruel and oppressive towards their own wives.

John Gay, best known for his ballad opera "The Beggar's Opera," was a prominent figure in the Augustan age of English literature. His works often depicted the social and political issues of his time, and this quote is no exception. It sheds light on the unequal and often unjust treatment of women in 18th-century society, particularly in the context of marital relationships.

The term "gamesters" refers to those who engage in gambling, while "highwaymen" were criminals who robbed travelers on the roads. Both these groups were often associated with a reckless and indulgent lifestyle, and the quote suggests that despite their immoral activities, they were capable of showing kindness and consideration towards their mistresses or prostitutes.

The contrast between the treatment of "whores" and "wives" in the quote reflects the societal norms and expectations of the time. Wives were expected to adhere to certain standards of behavior and were often subject to the authority and control of their husbands. On the other hand, mistresses and prostitutes, although marginalized and stigmatized, may have been treated with more leniency and affection by these men due to the transactional nature of their relationships.

This quote highlights the hypocrisy and double standards prevalent in 18th-century society, where women were often subjected to unequal treatment based on their societal roles and relationships with men. It also speaks to the power dynamics within marital relationships, where wives may have been at the mercy of their husbands' whims and subjected to mistreatment and neglect.

In addition to its social commentary, the quote also offers insight into the moral and ethical considerations of the time. It suggests that individuals engaged in vice and criminal behavior may compartmentalize their treatment of women based on societal expectations and their own moral compass. The juxtaposition of kindness towards mistresses and cruelty towards wives raises questions about the underlying attitudes and values of the society in which John Gay lived and wrote.

Overall, John Gay's quote "Gamesters and highwaymen are generally very good to their whores, but they are very devils to their wives" serves as a poignant reflection of the gender dynamics, moral complexities, and societal norms of 18th-century England. It sheds light on the treatment of women, the power dynamics within relationships, and the ethical considerations of the time, offering valuable historical and social insights into the prevailing attitudes towards women and marriage.