... in highlighting the contradictory foundation upon which 18th-century concepts of femininity and female sexuality were based. The text presents a society in which the stringent regulations of femininity and sexual chastity were upheld, and in so doing, traces the logical consequence of a belief in and implementation of arbitrary societal constructs that at their very foundation are contrary and illogical ... precariously balanced. The first of the contradictions Manley addresses appears in relation to the economics of an 18th-century woman. Specifically, Manley highlights the disparity be...

• Word Count: 1986
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: Graduate