In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," the theme of obedience in marriage is highlighted through the quote regarding women's roles. The speaker acknowledges the social expectation placed upon women to be submissive and obedient to their husbands, regardless of their intelligence or character. This reveals the struggles women face in a patriarchal society where their dignity and autonomy are often compromised due to these societal norms.
The sentiment expressed emphasizes the tension between the desire for personal freedom and the obligation to conform, suggesting that even in the face of foolishness or incompetence in their partners, women are expected to uphold their duties. Cervantes illustrates a critical view of this dynamic, prompting readers to consider the implications of these expectations on women's identities and agency throughout the narrative.