The quote "The vows of a woman I engrave on water" is a line from the play "Antigone" by Sophocles. In this specific scene, Creon, the ruler of Thebes, concerns his child Haemon regarding his commitment in the direction of him as well as his regulations. Haemon responds by claiming that he will always obey his dad's legislations as long as they are just and fair, but likewise reminds him that he need to pay attention to individuals and be open to objection.
Creon responds with the above quote, basically claiming that a lady's guarantees are unpredictable and undependable, just like water that can quickly move and also change direction. This declaration implies that Creon does not depend on females as well as views them as undependable, which is an usual style in Greek mythology.
In context, the quote demonstrates Creon's conceit and ignorance towards his son's rightful criticism, as he would rather depend on his own misguided beliefs as opposed to pay attention to reason. It additionally highlights the gender duties and expectations in old Greece, where ladies were frequently viewed as substandard and also more emotional than men.