The status of any social group is related to their politics,constitutions and the econimic status.
In 18th century,someone compared England to a giant ship.The one who own the estate is the master of our ship,those who operate currency are only the passengers on this ship.Not only merchandise,land provides social status.
Bacon believed that,fortune,appearance,interest,noble etc.are not the initial factors when to choose a housewife.Instead,the piousness of mind,the sincerity of her parents,her virtue,her ability to keep house,her temperament.
Quotation from Western History,no matter which class women belong to,they are vulnerable to economy and law.
自己翻的,培根的话或许有原话,你可以去找找看.