PREFACE. THE proper study of mankind, I sexes. conceive, includes the study of both We ought not to confine our observations to one sex rather than the other, because if we presume that an absolute identity of passions, and inclinations, and dispositions exists, it may justly be affirmed, that in attempting to delineate the features of both, we have in fact produced a portrait of one only. But it is more than probable, that neither ancient nor modern philosophers, at least with very few exceptions, have pursued this comprehensive design; on the contrary, by a singular partiality, they have represented man as the distinguished being, and have not even condescended to examine the attributes of that sex, which they considered as altogether subordinate to him. The poets, however, by way of compensation, have dedicated their effusions to the celebration of female beauty. But what do they teach us? Do we know women better, after hearing of the elegance of their form, and the fascinating charms that adorn them? It is not sufficient that we describe them; we must write their history. This is the task which I have undertaken: and in fulfilling it, I intend to pursue the middle path, as far as I am able, between those who contemn and traduce them, and those who adore them in the ardour of passion. In the researches which I have made relative to the condition, the morals, the passions, and the influence of an oppressed sex, I have had no intention to weave a cloak for their errors and their foibles; I |