Final answer:
Culture affects Srimati's life through societal expectations and the confinement of women to a dependent and subservient role, as well as the extreme practice of sati.
Step-by-step explanation:
Culture can have a significant impact on an individual's life, and this is true for Srimati as well. One way culture affects her life is through the societal expectations and roles imposed on women. As mentioned in the text, over time Indian culture became more patriarchal, which confined women like Srimati to a dependent and subservient role. This affected her opportunities, rights, and overall freedom. Another example is the practice of sati, where a widow would immolate herself after her husband's death. This extreme act stemmed from the societal belief that a woman's life no longer had purpose without her husband, showcasing the influence of culture on individuals.