This quote suggests that the ideal age for marriage, according to Aristotle, is around eighteen for women and thirty-seven for men. The reasoning behind this large age gap could be rooted in the societal norms of Aristotle’s time. During the classical antiquity, women were typically married off at a young age while men, on the other hand, were expected to establish themselves financially and socially before taking on the responsibility of a family.

The age difference might also be based on Aristotle’s understanding of human development. He might have believed that women reach emotional maturity earlier than men. Therefore, an eighteen-year-old woman might be as emotionally mature as a thirty-seven-year-old man.

In today’s world, this idea could be seen as controversial due to the significant age gap it suggests between partners. However, it’s important to remember that societal norms and expectations were vastly different in Aristotle’s time.

In terms of personal development, this quote might be interpreted as a suggestion that individuals should only consider marriage when they feel mature and ready for the responsibility it entails. For some, this might be at a younger age, while others might need more time to grow and develop as individuals before they’re ready to share their life with another person.

In any case, the most vital point to consider is not the age but the maturity and readiness of the individuals involved. The quote, therefore, emphasizes the importance of personal growth and development before embarking on the journey of marriage.