Read the first seven paragraphs of “Behind the Formaldehyde Curtain” carefully. Then write a well-organized essay that explains how Mitford uses features of style and rhetoric to convey her attitude toward her subject.
Argument on Argument Essay
Read the first seven paragraphs of “Behind the Formaldehyde Curtain” carefully. Consider the implications of the rhetorical question posed in paragraph 6: “Is it possible he fears that public information about embalming might lead patrons to wonder if they really want this service?” Write an essay in which you defend, challenge, or qualify Mitford’s implied answer to that question.
Multiple Choice Practice 1. 2. Paragraph 2 contains each of the following EXCEPT a. humor b. alliteration c. irony d. allusion e. apostrophe
3. In paragraph 7, the section set off by dashes serves which of the following purposes? i. it satirizes the language of the funeral director ii. it clarifies technical language for the lay reader iii. it elaborates and expands the meaning previously given a. I only b. II only c. III only d. I and II only e. II and III only
4. Which of the following phrases from paragraph 8 is most subjective? f. “advanced chemical industry” g. “bewildering array” h. “preparation room” i. “sterile look of a surgery” j. “post-high-school course”
5. In context, each of the following expresses irony EXCEPT k. “suitably costly container” (paragraph 2) l. “any of the better funeral establishments” (paragraph 8) m. “chances of a live burial are indeed remote” (paragraph 10) n. “in an attitude of healthy repose” (paragraph 14) o. “a real pleasure for everybody concerned” (paragraph 27)
6. Each of the following phrases contains metaphoric language EXCEPT