Question

Question 7.

Read the following passage from Catherine Beecher's A Treatise on Domestic Economy before you choose your answer.

"It appears, then, that it is in America alone that women are raised to equality with the other sex; and that, both in theory and practice, their interests are regarded as of equal value. They are made subordinate in station [inferior in status] only where a regard [concern] to their best interests demands it, while, as if in compensation for this, by custom and courtesy they are always treated as superiors. Universally in this country, through every class of society, precedence is given to woman in all the comforts, conveniences, and courtesies of life. In civil and political affairs, American women take no interest or concern, except so far as they sympathize with their family and personal friends; but, in all cases in which they do feel a concern, their opinions and feelings have a consideration equal or even superior to that of the other sex."

Which claim statement best describes the author's position on women's suffrage?

A.)Women are already well-respected and better off without suffrage.
B.)Women's suffrage is necessary for the advancement of society.
C.)Women's suffrage will result in greater freedom and respect for women.
D.)Women's suffrage will have no effect on the advancement of women.

Answer 1

Answer: A.) Women are already well-respected and better off without suffrage.

Explanation: The author's position on women's suffrage can best be described as A.) Women are already well-respected and better off without suffrage. The author argues that women in America are already treated as equals to men and are given precedence in many aspects of life. They are made subordinate only where their best interests are concerned, but are always treated as superiors by custom and courtesy. The author also states that American women take no interest in civil and political affairs and therefore do not need suffrage to advance. This leads to the conclusion that the author believes women are already well-respected and better off without suffrage.