Question

refer to explorations in literature for a complete version of this narrative
what effect does word choice have on the meaning of this excerpt from benjamin franklins \a witch trial at mount holly\?
but it being the general belief of the populace that the womens shifts and the garters with which they were bound helpd to support them, it is said they are to be tried again the next warm weather, naked
the phrase \helpd to support them\ makes the situation of the accused sound more hopeful
the phrase \they are to be tried again\ creates a mood of anger
the phrase \the next warm weather, naked\ adds humor
the phrase \the general belief of the populace\ makes the citizens sound reasonable

Explanation:

The phrase "the next warm Weather, naked" is absurd and comical in the context of a supposed witch - trial. It contrasts with the otherwise serious - sounding description of the populace's beliefs and the trial. The idea of waiting for warm weather to try them naked is a humorous take on the superstition and the ill - thought - out nature of the "trial" process.

• The phrase "help'd to support them" does not make the situation hopeful. It is more about the superstitious belief of the populace regarding the items (shifts and garters) rather than a positive outcome for the accused.
• The phrase "they are to be tried again" does not create a mood of anger. It is more of a statement of the plan according to the populace's belief, without an inherent angry mood.
• The phrase "the general Belief of the Populace" does not make the citizens sound reasonable. The belief in using shifts and garters to support (in a superstitious witch - trial sense) and then trying them naked is a superstitious and not a reasonable belief.

Answer:

The phrase "the next warm Weather, naked" adds humor.