Question

language considered offensive in modern society should be removed from classic works of literature so that anyone can study these works without the distraction of hurtful words. now consider how someone might argue against this. which sentence presents the strongest and most reasonable counter - claim to the above claim? much classic literature that includes offensive language by todays standards—including works by the revered novelist mark twain—can legally be edited in any way people deem appropriate. classic works of literature should retain their original language, offensive or not, because an authors choice of words is important to the meaning and historical context of the work. removing offensive language from classic works of literature would diminish their value so profoundly that they could no longer even be considered literature.

Explanation:

The original claim is about removing offensive language from classic literature. The strongest counter - claim should address the importance of the original language in terms of meaning and context. The first option just states legality of editing. The third option makes a rather extreme claim about value. The second option emphasizes the significance of an author's word - choice for meaning and historical context, which is a strong and reasonable counter - claim.

Answer:

Classic works of literature should retain their original language, offensive or not, because an author's choice of words is important to the meaning and historical context of the work.