How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"My mom still talks to some of the women she was with when she went through the Selection. They're all viewed as important women. Still." (15.63)
While it's cool that the women who are Selected become respected by society even if they aren't chosen, we can't help but think that there is a better system than this. Like, maybe woman scientists could be considered important? Or female business leaders? Or maybe if Illéa gave more respect to mothers and working women? Just a thought.
Quote #8
This was the thing I'd been bothered about since the beginning, that Maxon was looking for nothing more than a pretty face. Now that I'd met him, I was sure that wasn't true. (17.33)
To be honest, we can't blame America for being skeptical of Maxon's intentions. The Selection seems like a pretty messed-up system to us—it manages to be sexist, classist, and vapidly materialistic, all in one nasty package. Luckily for America, however, Maxon is an earnest dude who sincerely wants to find love. Could you imagine what would have happened if he weren't?
Quote #9
So the eliminated girls were already getting snatched up by wealthy men. I didn't realize being the castoff of a future king made you a commodity. (17.121)
In case you still had doubts that women are treated like commodities in Illéa, then this should rest the case. Still, if there's any consolation we can take from this situation, it's that the girl who's currently leading the Selection—America—is all about the girl power, even if she doesn't realize it.