In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," there is a poignant reflection on societal norms regarding virtue and reputation, particularly pertaining to women. The phrase "after all, a daughter looks better ill married than well whored" highlights the societal preference for a daughter's marriage over her promiscuity. This suggests that even a less-than-ideal marriage is deemed preferable to a daughter engaging in sexual immorality, reflecting the era's values of honor and morality. Through this lens, Cervantes critiques the rigid expectations placed on women and the consequences they face from society. The quote captures a deep concern for a woman's status, where her worth is often tied to her marital situation. The emphasis on marriage as a tool for preserving honor illustrates the broader themes of societal pressures and hypocrisy prevalent in the novel, prompting readers to question the moral standards that govern relationships and personal choices in that historical context.

In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," there is a poignant reflection on societal norms regarding virtue and reputation, particularly pertaining to women. The phrase "after all, a daughter looks better ill married than well whored" highlights the societal preference for a daughter's marriage over her promiscuity. This suggests that even a less-than-ideal marriage is deemed preferable to a daughter engaging in sexual immorality, reflecting the era's values of honor and morality.

Through this lens, Cervantes critiques the rigid expectations placed on women and the consequences they face from society. The quote captures a deep concern for a woman's status, where her worth is often tied to her marital situation. The emphasis on marriage as a tool for preserving honor illustrates the broader themes of societal pressures and hypocrisy prevalent in the novel, prompting readers to question the moral standards that govern relationships and personal choices in that historical context.