Final answer:
The term 'stifling' in literature conveys a sense of being suffocated or constrained, often either due to physical lack of air or a metaphorically oppressive atmosphere.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of literature, the term 'stifling' typically conveys a sense of being suffocated or constrained in an oppressive way. For instance, in a story, if the air in a room is described as 'stifling,' it could mean that it is difficult to breathe due to lack of ventilation, or metaphorically, that the atmosphere is so tense it makes characters feel trapped.
In the given excerpt, the phrase that best helps readers understand the meaning of 'stifling' is 'if he walk-you know what Rome is-, up hill and down dale after him you tramp.'
This phrase suggests that the poet is describing a situation in which the narrator is constantly following someone closely, even in challenging or uncomfortable circumstances, like walking uphill and downhill in the city of Rome. This sense of being constantly confined and restricted can be associated with the feeling of 'stifling.'
Therefore, the phrase 'up hill and down dale after him you tramp' helps readers understand the meaning of 'stifling.'