Meaning: This quote by Mary Astell, a prominent English writer and feminist philosopher of the 17th century, reflects her views on marriage and the prevailing societal norms of her time. Astell was known for her advocacy of women's education and her critique of the traditional gender roles and expectations imposed on women. Her writings often challenged the prevailing attitudes towards women and marriage, advocating for women's intellectual and moral development.

In this particular quote, Astell suggests that if only men of strict virtue and honor were to marry, the world would be thinly populated. This statement can be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it implies that the standards of virtue and honor expected of men were not commonly met in Astell's society. She may be highlighting the prevalence of moral shortcomings among men, which would result in a scarcity of suitable partners for marriage if only men of high moral character were to marry.

Furthermore, Astell's statement can be seen as a critique of the unequal expectations placed on men and women in marriage. It suggests that if only virtuous and honorable men were considered suitable for marriage, many women would be left unmarried due to the scarcity of such men. This highlights the disparity in the societal expectations for men and women in relationships, with men often being judged by different standards than women.

Astell's quote also challenges the conventional notion that marriage is the ultimate goal for women. By questioning the idea of thin population resulting from the marriage of only virtuous men, she indirectly questions the importance of marriage as the primary purpose of women's lives. Her statement challenges the traditional view that a woman's worth and fulfillment are inherently tied to marriage, suggesting that there are other valuable pursuits for women beyond matrimony.

In addition, the quote may also reflect Astell's belief in the flawed nature of societal norms and the institution of marriage during her time. By implying that the world would be thinly populated if only virtuous men married, she may be highlighting the prevalence of moral failings and the lack of true virtue in the prevailing marital relationships. This aligns with Astell's broader critique of the societal structures that perpetuated the subjugation and limited opportunities for women.

Overall, Mary Astell's quote encapsulates her critical perspectives on marriage, gender roles, and societal norms. It reflects her commitment to challenging the prevailing attitudes towards women and marriage, advocating for a more equitable and morally grounded society. Her words continue to resonate with contemporary discussions on gender equality, the complexities of marriage, and the evolving expectations for individuals in relationships.