She's beautiful, and therefore to be wooed; She is a woman, therefore to be won.
In William Shakespeare's "Henry VI, Part 1," the quote highlights traditional perceptions of beauty and gender roles in the context of courtship. The phrase suggests that a woman's attractiveness makes her a target for romantic pursuit, implying that beauty is a quality that invites admiration and attention. This reflects a societal expectation that women should be valued for their appearance.
The second part of the quote emphasizes the competitive nature of romance, where a woman is viewed as something to be 'won' rather than an equal partner in a relationship. This notion perpetuates the idea that male effort is essential in claiming a woman's affection. Together, these thoughts portray a view of love and relationship dynamics rooted in conquest and physical allure, characteristic of the era's social constructs.
