（16.~20.）    Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt   Did you know the cosmetics industry has a very long history? Theancient Egyptians used makeup as far back as 4000 B.C. In AncientEgypt, cosmetics were not just for women: men wore makeup, as didchildren and the elderly. They used makeup both for practical reasons andfor decoration.    One of the practical uses of makeup was eye protection. Egypt is in avery hot and dry part of the world where the sun can be blinding. Toprotect their eyes, Egyptians put a paste around their eyelids that wassimilar to the black paint American football players put under their eyes.   Cosmetics also helped Egyptians keep their skin healthy. Because ofthe dry winds and hot sun, skin would often become dry. Egyptians applied facial cosmetics made out ofanimal and vegetable oils and herbs. These cosmetics prevented their skin from drying out. They alsohad a pleasant cooling effect which was refreshing in the hot weather.   In addition to using cosmetics for practical benefits, Egyptians also applied them for decoration. Atthe time, most people considered eye makeup to be very attractive. They outlined their eyes in black orgray. A line drawn out toward the hairline was thought to be very stylish. During this time, manyEgyptian women had a small makeup box that they carried around with them. This meant they could fixtheir makeup while they were out, just like many women do today.    The practice of using cosmetics for both beauty and practical purposes originated from the wisdomand lifestyle of ancient Egyptians. Athough cosmetics are used differently today, a lot remainsunchanged.

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【題組】16. What is the main idea of this passage?
(A) The cosmetics industry is one of the oldest in the world.
(B) Ancient Egyptians used cosmetics for a variety of purposes.
(C) Cosmetics make women and men feel better about their appearance.
(D) Cosmetics were important to ancient Egyptians because of the strong winds and sunshine.