The function of the "king" remains unchanged, and the dexterity and "unbashed countenance" in which Cleophila condemns the crowd suggests that, despite her femininity, she is equally capable of maintaining the position, indeed it is "the goodliness of her shape" that gives her opportunity to speak. ... Opening with the acknowledgment that "an unused thing it is that a woman should give public council to men" , she confirms her sex, rather than challenges it, as Elizabeth declares her own "body but of a weak and feeble woman" , and doesn't defy gender hierarchy. ...

• Word Count: 1452
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Graduate

When Theseus replies that Hermia has two choices-either to "die the death or abjure for ever the society of men" neither of which is palatable-Hermia replies, again with calm assertiveness, that her soul "consents not to give sovereignty" of itself to another, even if that other is a powerful man who holds the highest authority in the land. ...

• Word Count: 2208
• Approx Pages: 9
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Graduate