Structure and Style in The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects — Quiz
Question 19 • English Language Arts 12
Read the excerpt from Suffragists' "Great Demand" Banner. Paul continued the picketing after the inauguration. While Wilson might have been somewhat amused at first, his attitude changed with the picketers’ persistence. The silent sentinels, as the women called themselves, were increasingly seen as an embarrassment to the administration. Wilson was moving the United States toward war against Germany, and on April 2 told Congress that war was necessary in order that the world "be made safe for democracy.” The picketers’ banners pointed out the hypocrisy of fighting for democracy and freedom in Europe while denying it to women at home. Which statement best describes the author’s diction in this excerpt?
Answer
A
The use of the words war and fighting describe society’s attitude toward women who wanted to vote.
B
The use of the word hypocrisy shows the contradiction of a country fighting for freedom but not allowing women to vote.
C
The author uses descriptive language to describe the women’s actions in protesting demonstrations.
D
The author uses descriptive language to explain the women’s attitude toward war against Germany.
Explanation
The word “hypocrisy” means claiming to support a principle while acting against it. The excerpt points out that the United States was fighting to make the world “safe for democracy” while denying women the vote at home. So “hypocrisy” highlights that contradiction, making D the best choice.
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