Final answer:
The passage from 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett utilizes diction, the choice of words and style of expression, to give a unique identity to the narrator's voice and contribute to the character's portrayal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technique described in the passage from The Help by Kathryn Stockett is best characterized as diction. Diction refers to the choice of words and style of expression that an author uses. In the given example, Stockett uses a specific kind of English variety that captures the voice of her character, thus contributing to a more authentic and engaging narrative. This narrative device not only helps to flesh out the character but also gives a unique identity to the narrator's voice, often influencing the tone and overall atmospheric details of the story. The word choice, particularly the use of the verb "be" instead of "is", reflects a dialect and creates a vivid portrayal of the character's background and cultural setting.
Compared to other elements like syntax or sentence structure, which refer to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, diction is specifically concerned with the words themselves. When analyzing texts, each word chosen by an author can hold significance, creating deeper layers of meaning and aiding in the development of characters and setting.