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Many of the narratives can only tend to excite ideas the…

“Many of the narratives can only tend to excite ideas the worst calculated for a female breast: Every thing is called plainly and roundly by its name; and the annals of a Brothel would scarcely furnish a greater choice of indecent expressions. Yet this is the Book, which young Women are recommended…” quote by Matthew Lewis
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“Many of the narratives can only tend to excite ideas the worst calculated for a female breast: Every thing is called plainly and roundly by its name; and the annals of a Brothel would scarcely furnish a greater choice of indecent expressions. Yet this is the Book, which young Women are recommended to study.”

Matthew Lewis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The book’s explicit content about prostitution is shocking, yet it’s presented as a recommended read for young women, highlighting hypocrisy.

In simple terms: A vulgar book is oddly recommended to women.

Key Takeaway

Question the motives behind recommending such material.

Themes

gender hypocrisy literature morality education

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

controversial analytical

When to use this quote

  • school curricula
  • parental guidance
  • literary analysis
  • media studies

Key Concepts

censorship gender norms literary criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why would a morally dubious book be suggested for women?
  • What does this say about societal attitudes toward female sexuality?
A Different Perspective

Promoting indecent material to women can reinforce harmful stereotypes.

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