Meaning: The quote "What innocence, may I ask, is being played here when it is known that this virtuous damsel has already got a dozen illegitimate children?" by Nikita Khrushchev refers to the hypocrisy and double standards often seen in society. Nikita Khrushchev was a prominent Soviet politician who served as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1953 to 1964. This quote reflects Khrushchev's skepticism and criticism of the perceived innocence or virtue of individuals or institutions when their actions or behaviors contradict those virtues.

In this quote, Khrushchev uses the metaphor of a "virtuous damsel" who is known to have "a dozen illegitimate children" to highlight the discrepancy between appearance and reality. The "innocence" being played refers to the facade of purity or righteousness that is projected, while the truth of the situation contradicts this image. Khrushchev's choice of words is deliberate in highlighting the irony and questioning the validity of the supposed innocence.

The underlying message of the quote pertains to the concept of hypocrisy and the tendency of individuals or institutions to present themselves in a certain light, often in contrast to their actual behaviors or actions. Khrushchev's use of the metaphor serves to draw attention to the disparity between perception and reality, and to challenge the audience to consider the true nature of the situation.

The quote can be interpreted in various contexts, including political, social, and personal. Politically, it might allude to the deceptive practices of governments or political figures who claim moral superiority while engaging in unethical or corrupt activities. Socially, it could refer to the judgment and labeling of individuals based on superficial appearances, regardless of their true character. On a personal level, it might prompt introspection about one's own behaviors and the image they project to others.

Khrushchev's critique in this quote reflects a broader skepticism towards the facade of innocence or virtue, and serves as a reminder to question and challenge such appearances. By highlighting the incongruity between perception and reality, Khrushchev aims to provoke critical thinking and a deeper examination of the values and judgments that underpin society.

In conclusion, Nikita Khrushchev's quote "What innocence, may I ask, is being played here when it is known that this virtuous damsel has already got a dozen illegitimate children?" serves as a poignant commentary on the discrepancy between appearance and reality, and the tendency for individuals or institutions to project a facade of innocence or virtue that contradicts their actual actions or behaviors. This quote challenges the audience to question the validity of such appearances and to consider the true nature of the situations being presented. Khrushchev's use of metaphor and irony underscores the underlying message of skepticism and critical examination of perceived innocence, making this quote a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of human behavior and societal values.