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#1. Literary and archaeological sources provide ample evidence that women in ancient Sri Lankan society were held in _________.
Explanation: The text explicitly states that “Ancient Sri Lankan society held women in high esteem” and they were “Treated with respect.” This is the central theme supported by the evidence provided.
#2. The fact that women could ascend to the throne, such as Queen Chula Seewali and Queen Leelawathi, demonstrates the trust and respect society had in their _________.
Explanation: The source text highlights female rulers as proof of the high status of women, stating their rule “Demonstrates the trust and respect in their leadership abilities.” Queen Leelawathi’s three reigns are cited as a testament to this.
#3. The ancient text _________ describes a woman who managed her life independently for three years while her husband was away, showcasing the freedom women enjoyed.
Explanation: The text provides a specific example of female autonomy from this source: “Evidence from ‘Rasawahini’: This ancient text describes a woman… Managed her life independently for three years.”
#4. When told her wealth came from past good deeds, _________ wisely replied that true happiness lay in having children, highlighting the high value placed on motherhood.
Explanation: The source text attributes this specific wise response to “Queen Vihara Maha Devi,” using it as an example of how “Motherhood was highly valued.”
#5. According to the text, girls were typically considered eligible for marriage, an important social institution, at the age of _________.
Explanation: The text states a specific age for marriage eligibility: “Girls were typically considered eligible at the age of sixteen.” Until then, they remained under their parents’ care.
#6. The ancient text _________ highlights the importance of culinary skills for women, stating that parents were expected to ensure their daughters mastered the art of cooking.
Explanation: The text cites this specific work as the source for this social expectation: “The ‘Sahassawathuppkaranaya’ highlights the importance of women’s culinary abilities.”
#7. The story of _________, Prince Saliya’s wife, winning over the royal court with her delicious cooking is recounted in the “Saddharmalankaraya.”
Explanation: The text provides this famous example of culinary prowess having a significant social impact: “The ‘Saddharmalankaraya’… Recounts how Prince Saliya’s wife, Ashokamala, won over the royal court… With her delicious cooking.”
#8. Women who excelled in the culinary arts could be bestowed with the special title _________, meaning “skilled in sweet cooking.”
Explanation: The source text identifies this specific title of honor for culinary skill: “‘Madhupachika’: A special title meaning ‘skilled in sweet cooking’.” Another similar term mentioned is ‘Madhurahaththarasa’.
#9. Around the 2nd century BC, women held positions of authority in provincial administration, known by the title _________.
Explanation: The text states, “Around the 2nd century BC… Women held positions of authority known as ‘Parumaka’… Indicating their involvement in provincial administration.” This is the same title used for male chieftains.
#10. An inscription from Brahmanayagama in Anuradhapura mentions _________, the wife of Parumaka Nadika, showcasing women’s participation in local governance.
Explanation: The text gives a specific example of a female leader from an inscription: “Parumakalu Samana… The wife of Parumaka Nadika… Showcasing women’s participation in local governance.”
#11. A 2nd century AD inscription from Kokebe tells the story of _________, who donated half her family’s property to a Buddhist temple during King Bhathiytissa’s reign.
Explanation: The text highlights this act of female philanthropy: “A 2nd century AD inscription from Kokebe… Tells the story of Thalatha Lakshmi… Donated half her family’s property to a Buddhist temple.”
#12. Archaeological excavations at _________ unearthed a metal stick for applying eye makeup dating back to 1129 BC, revealing the importance of beauty and adornment.
Explanation: The text cites this specific finding from a particular site: “Excavation Site: Udaranchamadama in Rathnapura. Finding: A metal stick used for applying eye makeup, dating back to 1129 BC.”
#13. A stunning necklace discovered in a grave from 700-450 BC at _________ showcases the craftsmanship of ancient jewelry, with some beads being imported from India.
Explanation: The source text describes this specific archaeological find: “A stunning necklace discovered in a grave from 700-450 BC. Location: Ibbankatuwa near Dambulla… Some beads were imported from India.”
