Abook had gone the rounds of the pension. when it came her turn to read it, she did so with profound astonishment. she felt moved to read the book in secret and solitude, though none of the others had done so,—to hide it from view at the sound of approaching footsteps. it was openly criticised and freely discussed at table. mrs. pontellier gave over being astonished, and concluded that wonders would never cease.
how does the excerpt reflect its social and historical context?
it illustrates the values of “true womanhood” that encouraged domesticity.
it illustrates the values of “true womanhood” that encouraged manners.
it illustrates the “new woman” seeking sensual experiences.
it illustrates the “new woman” seeking intellectual experiences.