Final answer:
The characterization of Elizabeth as 'a cold, sniveling woman that treats Abigail as a slave' is an opinion due to its subjective nature and inability to be proven as a factual statement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Elizabeth is a cold, sniveling woman that treats Abigail as a slave' is an opinion. In English literature, distinguishing between fact and opinion is critical for critical reading and analysis. This statement is subjective and conveys a personal judgment or belief that cannot be proven true or false. It reflects the speaker's perspective or attitude towards Elizabeth's character, rather than stating an objective fact that can be substantiated with evidence.