In the text in bold, Empress Theodora uses a rhetorical strategy known as metaphor by likening the royal purple to the noblest shroud. This comparison employs metaphorical language to suggest that the royal status and regal attire are inseparable from her identity, emphasizing the significance of her position and the honor associated with it.
In the highlighted text, Empress Theodora employs a rhetorical strategy known as metaphor. A metaphor is a figure of speech that draws a comparison between two seemingly unrelated things to highlight a particular attribute or quality. Here, she compares the royal purple—the color associated with royalty and power—to a shroud, which is a garment typically used to cover a deceased person before burial.
By using the metaphor "the royal purple is the noblest shroud," Empress Theodora implies that the royal purple, symbolizing her regal status, is not just a garment but also a representation of her identity and position. She suggests that even in death, retaining her royal status is more important than mere safety or escape, emphasizing the significance and honor associated with her role as an empress.
This metaphorical comparison vividly portrays the value she places on her royal status and the extent to which she identifies herself with her position of power.
Therefore, option b. she uses the purple cloth to symbolize royalty, is correct answer.