"Gamesters and highwaymen are generally very good to their whores, but they are very devils to their wives"

This quote by John Gay is a commentary on the double requirements of males in the 18th century. It recommends that men who are bettors and burglars are typically generous and kind to their mistresses, however they are terrible and abusive to their better halves. This is likely due to the truth that girlfriends were seen as non reusable and replaceable, while partners were anticipated to be loyal and devoted to their spouses. The quote implies that males in this period had a sense of privilege when it pertained to their girlfriends, while they had little respect for their wives. This double standard was a reflection of the patriarchal society of the time, where males were seen as superior to ladies and had more power and control. The quote functions as a reminder of the inequality that existed between men and women in the 18th century, and how this inequality was perpetuated by the attitudes of males.