Question

Select the correct answer. Based on structural elements, what type of expository text does this excerpt from a 1917 Congressional address by President Woodrow Wilson exemplify? I am not now thinking of the loss of property involved, immense and serious as that is, but only of the wanton and wholesale destruction of the lives of non-combatants, men, women, and children, engaged in pursuits which have always, even in the darkest periods of modern history, been deemed innocent and legitimate. Property can be paid for; the lives of peaceful and innocent people cannot be. A. persuasive essay B. creative nonfiction C. news article D. personal memoir

Answer 1

The correct answer is A. persuasive essay.

Indeed, Wilson had sent a series of messages to Congress in order to persuade them to declare War on Germany and the Central Powers. It is a clear utilization of Pathos as he dismisses the idea that the war is being waged due to conflicting European imperial interests but due to the “savagery” of Germans. Historically speaking he was alluding to the decision of Germany to resume its U-Boat war against neutral civilian passenger ships. He is using relatable, emotional arguments to Congress and Americans who would be horrified if their own “men, women and children” were the victims of German “wholesome destruction”.