How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Sometimes, Jahanara, I wish that duty weren't such a sacred word," she admitted, slowing her pace. "But few words are more revered. Even if it is a weaker feeling than a mother's love for her daughter, men die for duty, and women…we women suffer for duty in more insidious ways. Our duty, just as those leading the Empire, is to follow whatever path is best for our people. And while marrying a silversmith might make you happiest, it wouldn't be best for Hindustan." (2.42)
Yikes. Jahanara's mom basically manages to sum up the entire plot of the book in this one bit of advice. Think about how many things go wrong in Jahanara's life because of her sense of duty.
Quote #2
She tried to raise her head, and I bent even lower. Mother twisted so that her mouth was against my ear. "Watch over him," she whispered faintly.
"But, Moth—"
"You are strong enough…more than strong enough."
"No, I want you here. You should be here."
"Please."
"You can't leave!"
"Please, Jahanara."
Her eyes were unguarded, and despite my overwhelming grief, I recognized her distress. I looked to Father, who knelt with his head upon her feet. "I'll try," I promised, my voice choked with tears. (5.130-137)
And thus begins Jahanara's long tradition of making deathbed promises that are really, really hard to keep. (And yet, of course, she does keep them.)
Quote #3
I held her, feeling the heavy toll of years, years short in number but becoming long with demands. I was tired of being strong, so weary of duty and scheming that at that moment I'd have traded my station with any serving girl in Agra. (7.93)
Jahanara is suffering as a result of her understanding of her duty toward Hindustan. But is that really her problem? Sure, having Ladli as a spy in Aurangzeb's camp is helpful, but is that plan really motivated by what's best for the kingdom, or is it motivated by what's best for her? Is there a difference?