Question

From “On Making an Agreeable Marriage” by Jane Austen —His situation in life, family, friends, & above all his Character—his uncommonly amiable mind, strict principles, just notions, good habits—all that you know so well how to value, All that really is of the first importance—everything of this nature pleads his cause most strongly.—You have no doubt of his having superior Abilities—he has proved it at the University—he is I dare say such a Scholar as your agreeable, idle Brothers would ill bear a comparison with.Based on the details in this passage, what traits did women of the time value in a suitor?superior attitude and conceit

social position, good character, and academic achievement


disregard for family and friends


good looks, a generous fortune, and a large estate

Answer 1

Based on the passage, the traits women valued in a suitor were his social position, good character, and academic achievement. (Option 2)

A suitor's socal position is important as the narrator explains that "his situation in life, family and friends" are valuable. These details refer to the man's status in society and how well-known or recognized his family and friends are.

The narrator also states that a man's "amiable mind" and "good habits" are valuable for women. These traits are related to his good character.

Lastly, the narrator refers to the suitor being a scholar and having attended University. According to the narrator, the woman will find such academic performance amusing and valuable.

Answer 2

Based on the details in this passage, the traits that women of the time valued in a suitor were social position, good character, and academic achievement.

Social position because of her mention of "his situation in life, family, friends"; good character due to her mention of "his uncommonly amiable mind, strict principles, just notions, good habits"; and finally, academic achievement because of her mention of "his [...] superior abilities—he has proved it at the University—he is I dare say such a Scholar as your agreeable, idle Brothers would ill bear a comparison with."