Question

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…" —Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

What is the advantage of repeating the syntax of the initial clause “It was the…”?

The monotone creates a feeling of disaster.
The parallel words make the reader confused.
The pattern suggests that music will be used.
The repetition creates a comparison/contrast theme.

Answer 1

Answer: D

Explanation: Repitition like this is very common in writing. Making the two complete sentences sound similar holds more emotional weight and more contrast than something like: "It was the best and worst of times."