Question

At the end of the poem, the reader can assume that the beliefs held by the speaker are probably the result of his father teaching him these ideas.

A. true
B. false

Answer 1

Without details on the specific poem, the question about the speaker's beliefs being influenced by his father is subjective. Common literary themes and philosophical discussions suggest parental influence during childhood is significant in shaping one's beliefs. The correct answer is option A.

The question pertains to the interpretation of a poem and the influence of the speaker's father on his beliefs. Without specific details of the poem, a definitive answer cannot be provided. However, it is common in literature for a speaker's values and beliefs to be influenced by parental figures and experiences during their formative years.

William Wordsworth's line "The child is the father of the man" suggests that our adult selves are largely shaped by our childhood experiences. This reflects a broader theme in psychological and philosophical discussions about the formation of beliefs, including the importance of early family influence and education.

Moreover, as philosophers like Gilbert Harman have noted, beliefs must not be based on false premises to be considered knowledge, indicating a need for critical examination of foundational beliefs learned in childhood.

Therefore, option A is correct.

Answer 2

The speaker's beliefs in the poem are likely influenced by his father.

The statement in the poem is true. At the end of the poem, the speaker implies that his beliefs are influenced by his father teaching him these ideas. The line 'the child is father of the man' suggests that the experiences and beliefs formed in childhood shape the person one becomes as an adult. This indicates that the beliefs held by the speaker are likely a result of the influence of his father.