Central Ideas in A Vindication of the Rights of Woman — Quiz
Question 6 • Language Arts 12
Read the excerpt from A Vindication of the Rights of Woman . Let there be then no coercion established in society, and the common law of gravity prevailing, the sexes will fall into their proper places. And, now that more equitable laws are forming your citizens, marriage may become more sacred: your young men may choose wives from motives of affection, and your maidens allow love to root out vanity. The father of a family will not then weaken his constitution and debase his sentiments, by visiting the harlot, nor forget, in obeying the call of appetite, the purpose for which it was implanted. And, the mother will not neglect her children to practise the arts of coquetry, when sense and modesty secure her the friendship of her husband. Which statement best summarizes the author’s ideas?
Answer
A
As marriage laws become more reformed, men and women will establish friendships with other couples.
B
As laws begin to change, the roles of men and women in marriage will become less clear.
C
As women achieve a more equal status, they will begin to question their husbands’ immoral behavior.
D
As women acquire more equal rights, husbands and wives will behave with respect for one another.
Explanation
The author argues that when laws treat women more fairly, marriage can be based on affection rather than coercion or vanity. Men will avoid visiting prostitutes, and women will focus on their children and their relationship with their husbands. Together, these examples support the idea that husbands and wives will treat one another with greater respect. The best summary is “As women acquire more equal rights, husbands and wives will behave with respect for one another.”
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