There was one species of despotism under which he had long groaned, and that was petticoat government

There was one species of despotism under which he had long groaned, and that was petticoat government

Washington Irving was a renowned American author who was known for his wit, humor, and keen observations of human nature. In his works, he often explored themes of power, control, and the dynamics of relationships. One particular theme that Irving frequently touched upon was the concept of "petticoat government," a term used to describe the influence and control that women, particularly wives, could have over their husbands.

In the context of Irving's writing, the idea of petticoat government was often portrayed as a form of despotism, or oppressive rule, that men had to endure in their domestic lives. This concept was often used as a source of humor and satire in Irving's works, as he poked fun at the idea of men being under the thumb of their wives.

One of Irving's most famous works, "The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.," features a character named Ichabod Crane who is portrayed as a meek and timid schoolteacher who is constantly at the mercy of his domineering wife, Katrina Van Tassel. Throughout the story, Irving uses humor and irony to highlight the absurdity of petticoat government and the ways in which it can impact a man's life.