English

Bradyn Phelps

3 January, 08:05

What effect does word choice have on the meaning of this excerpt from Benjamin Franklin's "A Witch Trial at Mount Holly"?

... both Accused and Accusers being stripp'd (saving only to the Women their Shifts) were bound Hand and Foot, and severally placed in the Water, lengthways, from the Side of a Barge or Flat, having for Security only a Rope about the Middle of each, which was held by some in the Flat.

The phrase "only a Rope" highlights the lack of technology in Franklin's time.

The phrase "both Accused and Accusers being stripp'd" clarifies that the accused were unfairly treated.

The phrase "bound Hand and Foot" emphasizes the seriousness of the danger.

The phrase "held by some" shows that the villagers cooperated together.