Question

Read the lines from "barbara frietchie." all day long that free flag tost over the heads of the rebel host. ever its torn folds rose and fell on the loyal winds that loved it well; which answer best describes the way the author establishes tone by his choice of words in the lines?

barbara frietchie responses he uses words like tost and rebel to portray the flag as an aggressive, angry symbol.
a. he uses words like tost and rebel to portray the flag as an aggressive, angry symbol.
b. he uses words like host and folds to portray the flag as a neutral, uninteresting symbol.
c. he uses words like loyal and loved to portray the flag as a powerful, positive symbol.
d. he uses words like free and torn to portray the flag as a quietly dignified symbol.

Answer 1

In “Barbara Frietchie,” the author's word choice creates a positive tone, portraying the flag as a cherished symbol of devotion and patriotism, despite its torn appearance. The terms “loved” and “loyal” contrast with “torn” to evoke resilience and spirit. The correct option is C, showing the flag as a powerful, positive symbol.

Step-by-step explanation:

The author uses specific word choices to establish a tone in the lines from “Barbara Frietchie.” The way the flag is described as being “tost” over the heads of the “rebel host” and the folds rising and falling on “loyal winds that loved it well” brings about a sense of active defiance and enduring spirit.

The use of the word “free” in conjunction with the flag suggests an element of liberty and resilience, despite the description of “torn folds” which could imply a history of struggle or battle. Nevertheless, the words “loyal” and “loved” counteract any sense of defeat by creating a narrative of positivity and support for the flag and what it represents. Therefore, the words chosen by the author invoke a tone that portrays the flag not as aggressive or neutral but as a cherished symbol of devotion and patriotism amidst adversity.

The correct answer to the question is C. The author uses words like “loyal” and “loved” to portray the flag as a powerful, positive symbol.