Although the field of surgery was dominated entirely by men in the mid-19th century, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell did not view the profession as _______: she became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States and opened her own infirmary.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
legitimate
impenetrable
compelling
indecipherable
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text states Blackwell "became the first woman" to receive a degree despite male dominance. If she succeeded, she did not view the field as "impenetrable" (impossible to enter).
Choice A is incorrect because she likely viewed it as legitimate enough to pursue. Choice C is incorrect because "compelling" means interesting; she likely did find it compelling. Choice D is incorrect because "indecipherable" means impossible to read/understand.