Question

i tell you it is within the realm of possibility that this seventy-eighth congress may have the historic privilege of helping greatly to save the world from future fear.
therefore, let us all have confidence, let us redouble our efforts.
-state of the union address, 1943, franklin d. roosevelt

what is the effect of the repeated phrase \let us\?
it promotes a united effort.

what is the effect of the phrase \historic privilege\?

• it suggests that contributing is an honor.
• it shows that the country has nothing to fear.
• it implies that congress is helping the public.

Explanation:

Analyze the context and phrase

The excerpt is from Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1943 State of the Union address. He states that the Seventy-eighth Congress may have the "historic privilege of helping greatly to save the world from future fear."

Evaluate the rhetorical effect

Using the Rhetorical Analysis and Rhetorical Word Choice concepts, we analyze the phrase "historic privilege."

• A "privilege" is a special right, advantage, or high honor granted to a particular group.
• Describing this opportunity as "historic" elevates its significance to a monumental level.
• Therefore, calling this opportunity a "historic privilege" frames their potential contribution as a deeply significant honor rather than a mere duty or burden.

Compare the options

• "It suggests that contributing is an honor." This directly aligns with the definition of "privilege" as an honor or special opportunity.
• "It shows that the country has nothing to fear." This misinterprets the text, which mentions saving the world from future fear as a goal, not an accomplished state.
• "It implies that Congress is helping the public." While Congress is helping, "historic privilege" specifically emphasizes the honorable nature of this unique opportunity.

Answer:

• It suggests that contributing is an honor. (Correct answer)
• It shows that the country has nothing to fear.
• It implies that Congress is helping the public.