Dr. Courtney's guide to happy marriage

Chapter 3: Purpose of Marriage.

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About This Book

A practical manual offers straightforward guidance for newlyweds and those contemplating marriage, arguing that marriage should arise from mutual love and esteem rather than mere physical desire. It lists rules for marital happiness—complete confidence, avoidance of secrets and public reproach, forbearance, continuing courtship, affectionate reconciliation, and partnership in finances and household duties. Separate sections recommend domestic stewardship and economy for wives and generosity, tenderness, transparency, and support for husbands. Throughout, the text emphasizes daily small gestures, mutual respect, and communication as foundations for sustaining a lasting, harmonious partnership.

Purpose of Marriage.

Marriage ought to be consummated as the result of mutual love and esteem, and not for the purpose of simply gratifying the desires of our lower nature. This last consideration is, it must be acknowledged, a controlling one with a great many people, and marriages contracted in this manner are not generally, and cannot hope to be, happy ones. The sacredness of the marriage relation ought never to be violated. We must not forget that we are rational beings with a will to withstand the weaknesses of our animal natures.