Meaning & Analysis
Women are inherently determined and will inevitably succeed in getting what they want, regardless of any opposition.
Insights
Stereotype of Female Stubbornness
The proverb serves as a commentary on the perceived nature of women as inherently stubborn or unyielding. It frames this persistence as a fundamental and inescapable feminine trait.
Domestic Power Dynamics
It highlights the subtle power struggles within relationships, suggesting that despite societal norms favoring men, women's persistence allows them to exert significant influence and ultimately achieve their objectives.
Resignation to Female Agency
The proverb can be read as an expression of cynical resignation, implying that resisting a woman's desires is futile, making concession the most practical or peaceful course of action.
Historical Gender Dynamics
Originating in a patriarchal era where women lacked formal power, this proverb reflects a cultural acknowledgment of female agency within the domestic sphere. It can be interpreted as both a grudging recognition of women's influence and a complaint against their perceived obstinacy.
Psychological Undercurrents
The proverb reveals a societal anxiety surrounding female autonomy, framing women's desires not as rational ambitions but as an inexorable, almost natural, force. This stereotype serves to simplify and often dismiss the legitimacy of their goals.
Legal and Social Context
Cross-referenced proverbs like 'Women must have their wills while they live because they make none when they die' add a layer of dark humor, alluding to the legal limitations (coverture) that historically denied married women the right to own property or make a will.
Rhetorical Devices
Categorical Generalization
The proverb makes a sweeping, absolute claim about all 'WOMEN', a form of hyperbole that strengthens its impact and presents a stereotype as an undeniable fact.
Alliteration
The repetition of the 'w' sound in 'Women will' creates a memorable phonetic link, enhancing the proverb's rhythm and reinforcing its message.
Declarative Tone
It is stated as a simple, confident truth, leaving no room for nuance or argument. This authoritative tone is characteristic of proverbial wisdom.
Transcription
Quotations
Let euery man please his wife in all matters, and . . . let hir haue hir owne will, for that she wyll haue whosoever say ney.
I am kyn to a woman in all poynts ile haue my will.
It must be as the woman will, when all is said and done.
Come Cyclops, my wife must haue her will.
A woman must a little haue her will.
But in our loues, the prouerbe weele fulfill: Women and Maydes, must alwayes haue their will.
Doe not I know, if women haue a will, They'll doe 'gainst all the watches, o' the world?
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.