164 By Sor Juana Ines De La Cruz Summary

Many years ago, a wife was expected to be submissive to her husband, never to question him and do as he says because he is the one who is in charge of making all of the decisions for the family. The wife’s role is to take care of the home and children. This role is that of an antiquated view of a wife. This is completely contradictory in comparison to what I understand in the poem 164 by Sor Juana Inés De la Cruz. In the poem the woman is questioning the mad and has suspicions of infidelity. Her role is that of a more modern woman which displays some control over the relationship. The man tries to persuade her and wants to reassure her that he loves her. This is considered unconventional for a wife to do as she is expected to obey and trust her husband. In this current society men and women are equals and can play similar roles and
The husband having to prove his love and explaining anything to his wife are some of the many changes we see in marriage in these modern times. The poem states, “Enough unkindness now, my love, enough;/ don't let these tyrant jealousies torment you/ nor base suspicions shatter your repose/ with foolish shadows, empty evidence:/ in liquid humor you have seen and touched/ my heart undone and passing through your hands” ( 9-14 ). This describes how a husband wants to reassure his wife that there is no need for her to treat him badly. Not only is her treatment of her husband is unconventional but also can be seen as disrespect in the old times. In modern times it isn't viewed that way. It is seen as men and women being