arranged marriage

Which of the following can be inferred about marriage in ancient times?

• It was mainly based on mutual romantic love.

• It was strongly influenced by economic and social considerations.

• Women usually decided whom they would marry.

• People often married outside their social class.

The phrase “The parents lived through their children” most nearly means that parents:

• depended emotionally on their children’s happiness.

• expected their children to achieve what they themselves could not.

• relied on having children to ensure survival and continuation of the family.

• allowed their children to make all life decisions.

The word “transaction” in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to:

• celebration

• agreement

• conflict

• tradition

According to the passage, which of the following statements is TRUE?

• Mothers played an equal role in arranging marriages.

• Wealth and family background increased a girl’s marriage prospects.

• Poor peasants were not allowed to marry.

• Merchants were forbidden to marry noblewomen.

What is the author’s main point in the final paragraph?

• Arranged marriages have completely disappeared worldwide.

• Social classes are no longer important in modern society.

• Arranged marriage persists partly because it provides stability and a sense of security.

• People in the Middle East reject traditional customs.