Question

Which of these BEST identifies Churchill’s purpose for his use of diction and syntax in the first three paragraphs?
Responses

A He wanted to set an angry and aggressive tone.He wanted to set an angry and aggressive tone.

B He wanted to establish a climate of concern and unity.He wanted to establish a climate of concern and unity.

C He wanted to create a rambling and non-threatening effect.He wanted to create a rambling and non-threatening effect.

D He wanted to give a detailed and clear account of his actions.

Answer 1

B

Churchill uses inclusive diction ("we") and solemn, urgent word choice plus parallel and rhythmic sentence patterns to build a shared sense of concern and to rally the nation to unity and resolve. These choices create solidarity and purpose rather than anger, rambling, or a mere factual report.