Question

Read the excerpt from Martin Luther King Jr.’s "I Have a Dream” speech.

But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

Which statement best describes King’s "palace” metaphor?

The image shows the impressive potential of a just society.
The image shows the need for a strong central government.
The illustration encourages Americans to run for political office.
The illustration encourages listeners acquire material wealth.

Answer 1

The image shows the impressive potential of a just society.

Explanation: King’s “palace of justice” metaphor evokes a grand, rightful place of fairness and equality that African Americans are approaching — it highlights the promise and dignity of a just society, not political office, central government, or material wealth.