CUCKOLDS are Christians

Insights

Universality of Infidelity

The proverb cynically suggests that the state of being a cuckold is a universal condition, as widespread as Christianity. The 1732 quotation 'all the World over' reinforces this idea that infidelity is an inescapable part of the human experience.

Patient Suffering and Endurance

It equates the cuckold's situation with the Christian virtue of patient suffering. The cuckold must endure his shame and betrayal with a forced meekness, ironically framing his humiliation as a form of martyrdom.

Ignorance as a Form of Faith

The saying implies that just as a Christian's faith is based on belief in the unseen, a cuckold's peace of mind is based on ignorance of his wife's actions. His 'faith' in her fidelity, despite reality, is what makes him a 'Christian' in this cynical view.

Historical and Literary Context

The proverb reflects the cynical wit of the 18th century, a period rife with social satire about marriage and infidelity, particularly in Restoration and Augustan literature. The cuckold was a stock character of immense social anxiety and humor, and this saying distills that cultural preoccupation into a sharp aphorism.

Critique of Social Mores

This proverb functions as a critique of social and religious hypocrisy. It ironically elevates the cuckold's state of shame to one of religious virtue ('patience', 'turning the other cheek'), thereby mocking both the institution of marriage and the perceived passivity of religious piety.

Psychology of Denial and Acceptance

Psychologically, the proverb points to a mechanism of denial or forced acceptance. The cuckold, often the last to know of his wife's infidelity, must bear his fate with a 'Christian' forbearance, not out of genuine forgiveness but due to social pressure and the powerlessness associated with his position.

Rhetorical Devices

Irony

The proverb's primary power comes from its sharp irony, equating a state of social shame and ridicule (cuckoldry) with a state of religious identity and virtue (being Christian).

Satire

It functions as a satirical commentary on societal expectations of marriage and masculinity, using a religious metaphor to expose and mock the perceived weakness and passivity of the wronged husband.

Juxtaposition

The juxtaposition of the profane and secular term 'cuckold' with the sacred term 'Christian' creates a jarring, thought-provoking effect that fuels the proverb's cynical humor.