There has been a natural elevation of chastity as a virtue both by men and women. Even the most sophisticated among men may not like to marry a girl who is not chaste. While exaggerating the sex appeal of the feminine form, poets have at the same time glorified chastity, and built around virginity an aura of purity, innocence, beauty and nobility. The great majority of young women undoubtedly remain virginal up to the time of marriage either from high motives and ideals, or the force of family and public opinion. There is no happiness in anything we do unless it is the beneficiary of the stamp of approval of the society we live in.
Chastity is founded essentially on self-restraint and self-discipline. Like many other virtues, it is the outward expression of inward discipline. Chastity may be better defined as self control within the sexual sphere. Chastity is a virtue independent of all creeds and religions. Chastity is a virtue only if it is natural and not when it is forced upon woman by others, especially man. When chastity is transformed into a mere compulsory continence, it ceases to be either natural, or a virtue, or beneficial. It’s essential character is lost sight of.