In Bill Bryson's "At Home: A Short History of Private Life," he notes how societal norms once placed significant emphasis on controlling women's emotions and thoughts to prevent arousal. Women were advised to engage in activities that were less stimulating and to stay away from challenging intellectual pursuits. This reflects the restrictive attitudes of the time towards women’s roles and mental engagement.

The guidelines suggested that women prioritize domestic tranquility over intellectual stimulation as a means to maintain propriety. By promoting activities like getting fresh air while avoiding thought-provoking pastimes, it underscores the idea that women’s value was often seen through the lens of their physical presence rather than their intellectual capacities.