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 strongly negative terms. Douglass uses them to condemn American slavery and the nation's hypocrisy, expressing intense disgust at the injustice of the institution and the nation's failure to live up to its ideals. The other options are incorrect: the words do not convey hope, solidarity, or admiration.

Answer:

○ They show the speaker's disgust over slavery.