Final answer:
The question seeks an analysis of Mr. van Daan's viewpoints and tone which requires additional context from the source material. The tone of an author can be influenced by their position in a situation (victorious or vanquished) and their intentions, significantly affecting their portrayal of events and characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The viewpoints and tone of Mr. van Daan are not explicitly provided in the question, making it challenging to analyze his character without additional context. Typically, such a character analysis would explore the body of work in which the character features (e.g., Anne Frank's diary) to gain insight into his perspectives, actions, and demeanor. Mr. van Daan's tone could be reflective of his experiences, whether he is depicted as optimistic, pessimistic, bitter, or hopeful in the face of hardship. This tone can be derived from analyzing the language, behaviors, and interactions he has within the text.
Authors' intentions greatly influence their writing. When an author is on the side of the victorious, as mentioned, they might adopt a celebratory, justifying, or proud tone; conversely, the vanquished may convey tones of resentment, reflection, or loss. These tones can shift the perception of objectivity or bias, with examples provided in actual passages showing the writer's stance and use of rhetoric. For instance, Van Tassel's jovial disposition offers a tone of contentment and hospitality which influences the reader's perception of the story's ambiance.
Analyzing Writer's Stance
To analyze a writer's stance, one should consider evidence of objectivity or bias. Does the writer consistently present facts without personal judgment, or do they reveal their personal viewpoint? For example, a subjective tone might be indicated by phrases like 'ittle more than savages,' suggesting a biased or derogatory view towards the Scandinavians in Ibn Fadlan's account, as compared to the portrayal of a 'sophisticated intellectual' which brings out a contrasting refined image.
In summary, the tone of writing can be multifaceted and affected by an author's intentions and the context of their position in relation to the subject matter. Careful analysis of text and subtext, including direct dialogue and descriptive passages, helps to uncover the author's underlying viewpoint and whether they are intending to challenge conventional expectations or align with them.