The Country Wife

“A good name is seldom got by giving it oneself, and women no more than honour are compassed by bragging.” 

Since much of the play is about one’s reputation in society, Horner’s remark comments on the nature of reputation as earned. A woman cannot convince others that she has a virtuous reputation but maintains one through discretion and the avoidance of publicly committing gossip-worthy behavior. The appearance of impropriety is much more damning than actual impropriety. Similarly, Horner cannot convince others that he is sexually harmless (or sexually adept for that matter), but he can achieve that reputation by orchestrating its spread by someone deemed trustworthy.

“Women of quality are so civil, you can hardly distinguish love from good breeding, and a man is often mistaken. But now I can be sure she that shows an aversion to me loves the sport.”

Horner points out that upper class women are raised to be polite and accommodating, and therefore their kindness and hospitality means nothing. But a woman who, upon hearing that he is a eunuch, is disgusted by and dismissive of him is showing that she valued him for his rakish reputation and the rumor of his sexual prowess. Therefore, she reveals herself as being open to affairs.

“A mistress should be like a little country retreat near the town; not to dwell in constantly, but only for a night and away, to taste the town the better when a man returns.”

As Dorilant states, the womanizing men in this play treat women as dalliances. He, Horner, and Sparkish disavow marriage and proclaim their intent to remain bachelors forever. A mistress, therefore, should be available when desired but scarce when she is not wanted. She is meant to serve at the convenience of a man and not her own pleasures.