Question

read the excerpt from frederick douglasss july 4, 1852, speech on the hypocrisy of american slavery. douglass was an abolitionist and a formerly enslaved person. whether we turn to the declarations of the past, or to the professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems equally hideous and revolting. america is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future. how do the words hideous, revolting, and false most affect the tone and meaning of this passage? they suggest the speakers belief that the future holds hope. they present a tone of solidarity with americas actions. they show the speakers disgust over slavery. they show the speakers admiration for america.

Explanation:

The words "hideous," "revolting," and "false" are all negative adjectives. "Hideous" means extremely ugly or unpleasant, "revolting" means causing disgust or revolt, and "false" means not true or genuine. In the context of the passage, Douglass is criticizing America's conduct regarding slavery. These words emphasize his strong negative feelings and condemnation.

• The first option about hope is incorrect as the words are negative, not positive.
• The second option about solidarity is wrong because the words show criticism, not agreement.
• The fourth option about admiration is incorrect as the words are derogatory.

Answer:

They show the speaker’s disgust over slavery.