Explore the origins and meaning of 'Goody-Two-Shoes,' a term for a self-righteous person, tracing its roots to an 18th-century tale and examining its cultural relevance.
A “goody-two-shoes” refers to an individual who is self-righteously or smugly virtuous. The term is often used pejoratively to describe someone who is excessively well-behaved or eager to please authority figures, to the point of insincerity.
The phrase “goody-two-shoes” originates from the title of an 18th-century children’s story, The History of Goody Two-Shoes (1765), commonly attributed to Oliver Goldsmith. The protagonist, Margery Meanwell, is a poor orphan who owns only one shoe. Upon receiving a full pair, she joyously exclaims “Two shoes,” a moment symbolizing her modest ascent from poverty. The story was intended to impart moral lessons to children, emphasizing virtues such as hard work and gratitude.
The term “goody-two-shoes” carries connotations of moral superiority and insincerity. It implies that the person in question is ostentatiously virtuous, perhaps to curry favor or avoid conflict. The phrase can also suggest a lack of authenticity, as the individual’s behavior may be perceived as contrived or excessively compliant.
In contemporary culture, “goody-two-shoes” is often used in a derogatory manner to critique those perceived as overly virtuous or sycophantic. It appears in various media, including literature and film, to characterize individuals who adhere strictly to rules or exhibit moral rigidity. For example, in The Simpsons, the character Lisa Simpson is occasionally depicted as a “goody-two-shoes” due to her adherence to rules and moral principles.
In professional settings, being labeled a “goody-two-shoes” might imply a lack of independence or critical thinking. In social contexts, it can denote an individual who is perceived as lacking spontaneity or authenticity. In literary contexts, the term often serves as a critique of characters who conform excessively to societal norms.
The phrase “goody-two-shoes” remains relevant in modern discourse, particularly in contexts where moral posturing or insincerity is critiqued. Its durability is rated at ★★★★☆, reflecting its continued utility in describing a specific type of social behavior.
“A goody-two-shoes is often seen as a paragon of virtue, but beneath the surface lies a desire for approval and acceptance.” - Anonymous
“The goody-two-shoes of the world are not always what they seem; sometimes, their righteousness masks insecurity.” - Anonymous