Marriage

Definition

Marriage is a social and legal contract between individuals that establishes rights and obligations between them, often seen as a union based on love, commitment, and mutual respect. This institution can also be tied to societal norms, class distinctions, and expectations regarding gentillesse and honor, emphasizing how relationships were not just personal choices but also reflections of societal values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In many societies during the time period, marriage was often arranged to secure alliances and improve social status rather than based solely on love.
2. The concept of gentillesse plays a vital role in defining the characteristics expected from individuals within marriage, particularly those from noble backgrounds.
3. Honor was intrinsically linked to marriage; a woman's virtue was often tied to her family's honor and reputation.
4. Marriages often reflected class distinctions, where unions between different social classes could lead to tension and conflict.
5. Marriage could serve as a means of economic stability, where partnerships were formed not only for emotional reasons but also for securing financial advantages.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of gentillesse influence the expectations placed on marriages during this time?
  • Gentillesse influences marriage by establishing a standard of behavior and moral integrity expected from individuals, especially within noble classes. This idea dictates that those entering into marriage should embody virtues such as loyalty, respect, and honor. Marriages thus become a reflection not only of personal choice but also of societal expectations regarding class and conduct.
• Discuss the relationship between marriage and honor in the context of societal norms during this period.
  • Marriage is closely linked to honor as it serves as a public declaration of commitment that impacts family reputation. The perception of a woman's virtue directly influences her family's honor, making marital unions critical for maintaining or enhancing social standing. Societal norms dictated that maintaining one's honor was paramount, leading to strict behaviors surrounding courtship and the expectations of married couples.
• Evaluate how economic factors intersect with the institution of marriage and shape individual choices in forming unions.
  • Economic factors heavily intersect with marriage as it often involves considerations such as dowries or property exchanges that impact familial wealth and status. Individuals may choose partners based on financial stability or social mobility rather than purely romantic feelings. This dynamic reflects broader societal structures where economic considerations often dictate personal relationships, emphasizing that marriage is not solely an emotional bond but also a strategic alliance.

Related terms

gentillesse:

A term that refers to nobility or genteel behavior, often associated with moral virtue and the proper conduct expected of individuals in higher social classes.

honor:

A complex concept involving personal integrity, reputation, and the moral principles that govern behavior within society, particularly in relation to family and social standing.

dowry:

A transfer of parental property or wealth at the marriage of a daughter, often seen as a crucial aspect of marriage arrangements in various cultures.