Which best describes the way that Thoreau structured "Resistance to Civil Government"?
A.
He uses logos to show his credibility and then ethos to give readers a personal reason to support him.
B.
He uses logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate that he lives by his principles.
C.
He uses logos to draw attention to this moral character and then pathos to provide examples of his behavior.
D.
He uses logos to present factual, supported arguments and then pathos to stir up his readers' feelings on the subject.
B. He uses logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate that he lives by his principles.
B.
He uses logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate that he lives by his principles.
To determine the correct answer, we need to analyze the structure of Thoreau's "Resistance to Civil Government" and identify the rhetorical techniques he employs.
Thoreau's "Resistance to Civil Government," also known as "Civil Disobedience," is an essay where he argues against the unjust actions of the government and advocates for individual conscience and resistance to immoral laws. Thoreau uses a combination of logos, ethos, and pathos in his writing.
Let's evaluate each option:
A. He uses logos to show his credibility and then ethos to give readers a personal reason to support him.
This option suggests that Thoreau uses logos (logic and reason) to establish his credibility and then ethos (ethical appeal - personal reasons and character) to persuade readers. While Thoreau does incorporate ethos in his writing by sharing his personal experiences and beliefs, the order in which it is presented does not match this option. Therefore, option A is not the correct answer.
B. He uses logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate that he lives by his principles.
This option proposes that Thoreau uses logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate his commitment to living by those principles. Thoreau does indeed use logical reasoning and rational arguments throughout the essay, making a case for civil disobedience. Furthermore, he supports his arguments by providing examples from his own life, demonstrating that he lives in accordance with his principles. Therefore, option B aligns with Thoreau's structure and is the correct answer.
C. He uses logos to draw attention to his moral character and then pathos to provide examples of his behavior.
This option suggests that Thoreau primarily focuses on his moral character (logos) and then uses pathos (emotional appeal) to provide examples of his behavior. While Thoreau does touch on his moral character and provides examples, his main emphasis and structure are based on logical arguments (logos) rather than primarily appealing to his character. Therefore, option C is not the correct answer.
D. He uses logos to present factual, supported arguments and then pathos to stir up his readers' feelings on the subject.
This option suggests that Thoreau uses logos to present factual and supported arguments, and then employs pathos to stir up his readers' emotions. While there are instances where Thoreau appeals to the readers' emotions (pathos), such as when he describes the injustice and the need for personal agency, this emotional appeal is not the primary structure. Therefore, option D is not the correct answer.
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is B. Thoreau structures "Resistance to Civil Government" by using logos to present rational arguments and then ethos to demonstrate that he lives by his principles.