Question

Read the excerpt from "A Quilt of a Country."

Today the citizens of the United States have come together once more because of armed conflict and enemy attack. Terrorism has led to devastation—and unity.

Which statement best explains the role context plays in better understanding this excerpt?

Knowing that Quindlen has an Italian and Irish heritage helps the reader better understand her viewpoint, which is that all immigrants are the same.
Knowing that Quindlen compares the American people to a quilt helps the reader better understand her viewpoint of America as a melting pot.
Knowing that Quindlen lives in New York helps the reader understand that she lives in a multicultural environment.
Knowing that Quindlen wrote this piece after the 9/11 attacks helps readers understand her viewpoint, which is that tragedy unites people.

Answer 1

Knowing that Quindlen wrote this piece after the 9/11 attacks helps readers understand her viewpoint, which is that tragedy unites people. This context explains the reference to "armed conflict and enemy attack" and the emphasis on national unity.