Question

In lines 14-15, the author says women's minds are "like the flowers which are planted in too rich a soil." She means that women

A) cannot thrive in an educational program designed for men
B) will need to be introduced to higher learning in a gradual way
C) have feminine qualities that make their educated minds even more beautiful
D) are taught skills that make them pleasing but not intellectually strong

Answer 1

The author's metaphor suggests that women are cultivated to be pleasing in a superficial manner, rather than intellectually robust.

Step-by-step explanation:

In lines 14-15, when the author says women's minds are "like the flowers which are planted in too rich a soil," she likely means that women are taught skills that make them pleasing but not intellectually strong. This is based on the context provided, which includes various contrasts between the superficial accomplishments of certain women and the lack of substantial, beneficial actions or words. It also aligns with sentiments of the time, suggesting that women are often prepared by society to be ornamental rather than equipped with sturdy intellectual capability.