Woman is closer to angels than man because she knows how to mingle an infinite tenderness with the most absolute compassion.
Honore de BalzacMarriage is an institution necessary to the maintenance of society but contrary to the laws of nature.
Honore de BalzacAh! how much a mother learns from her child! The constant protection of a helpless being forces us to so strict an alliance with virtue, that a woman never shows to full advantage except as a mother. Then alone can her character expand in the fulfillment of all life's duties and the enjoyment of all its pleasures.
Honore de Balzac