Mary Todd Lincoln's faux pas (plural), worse, and much worse

[LincolnToddFan]

Laurie, you read my mind. I am not saying men can not have those qualities but there are some very intangible things that female historians often bring to the table when discussing the personal lives of historical figures.

This idea of "I think she was dreadful. I could not have dealt with such behavior. Therefore, another person MUST have felt the same way" does not take into account the nuances of human emotions and motivations.