The allusion to "a herculean task" indicates that survival would be very difficult. It suggests that the challenges faced by the Army of Northern Virginia are monumental and daunting, highlighting the harsh physical conditions and struggles for sustenance. This choice of words creates a tone that acknowledges the severity of their situation while juxtaposing it with the surprisingly high morale of Lee’s army under such circumstances.
Passage:
"As the days continued to lengthen and warm in April 1864, the realization that the Army of Northern Virginia, from a purely physical standpoint, faced a herculean task even to survive surfaced. Men and horses had eaten barely enough through the winter to stay alive. Grant's delay in opening up the spring campaign was greeted favorably in that the horses could get some forage from new grasses. The morale of Lee's army under these circumstances was amazingly high."
Question:
"What is the effect of the allusion on the passage's meaning or tone?"
Answers:
It indicates that survival would be very difficult.
It emphasizes the soldiers' dedication to their cause.
1 answer