The answer is B: ad hominem.
A logical fallacy is a failed form of argument that reaches a conclusion by means of invalid proofs that are not justified. Ad hominem (which could be translated as “against the man”) is one such logical fallacy and it involves an argument based on a direct attack of a person´s character or circumstances when they are not related to the content of the argument itself.
The phrase that indicated a lost in thought feel is the "Midnight shakes the memory". It means that his train of thought is going double time in the dark or at night.
By 'author of the essay reading Shakespeare' do you mean us readers?
As, I'm currently doing right try and read classical novels like 'How to kill a mockingbird'. There's no need to rush if it's the first time reading, the more you read (or few of classicals) you will kind off get what the author is making the character speaking. Also understanding the aspect of the story. :)
