Question

Refer to Explorations in Literature for a complete version of the text. Read this excerpt from "A Letter from Birmingham Jail" by Martin Luther King Jr.: I hope you are able to see the distinction I am trying to point out. In no sense do I advocate evading or defying the law, as would the rabid segregationist. Which statement best describes the connotative meaning of the word rabid? It has a positive connotation, suggesting a level of grudging respect. It has a negative connotation, suggesting a severe lack of intelligence. It has a positive connotation, suggesting a genuine depth of feeling. It has a negative connotation, suggesting a dangerous fanaticism.

Answer 1

It has a negative connotation, suggesting a dangerous fanaticism.

A rabid animal is one that is dangerous and does not seem to have a good sense of reality. Often the animal makes random attacks. We know that MLK Jr. is using the word rabid for its negative connotation because he says that he does not "advocate evading or defying the law" like "the rabid segregationist". He is stating that these people are committing dangerous acts. The use of rabid here also shows that this fanaticism can easily spread causing destruction.

Answer 2

It has a negative connotation, suggesting a dangerous fanaticism.