What is the effect of the word "babble" in the line "O thirty million English that babble of England's might"?

A) It creates a sense of curiosity
B) It praises England's citizens
C) It diverts attention from the soldiers' plight
D) It directly accuses the audience of inaction

1 answer

The effect of the word "babble" in the line "O thirty million English that babble of England's might" is best captured by:

D) It directly accuses the audience of inaction.

The use of "babble" suggests a trivial or meaningless conversation, implying that the citizens are talking aimlessly or without serious thought about the actual significance or consequences of England's might, which can be seen as a critique of their inaction in the face of more serious issues, such as war or conflict.