Question

read the passage from chapter 17 of the prince. against my will, my fate a throne unsettled, and an infant state, bid me defend my realms with all my powrs, and guard with these severities my shores. in this passage by the roman poet virgil, queen dido speaks about the responsibilities of a ruler. how does the phrase infant state in the second line affect the tone? it changes the tone to make it more threatening. it supports the overall tone of fear. it changes the tone to become more serious. it suggests a tone of loving concern.

Explanation:

An "infant state" refers to a new, fragile, unestablished realm. Queen Dido's words frame her rule as a burden she must take on against her will, to protect this vulnerable state. This emphasizes the gravity of her duty, shifting the tone to one of solemn weight rather than fear, threat, or gentle concern.

Answer:

It changes the tone to become more serious.