Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyRhetorical Function of Specific Word Choices

For centuries, early mapmakers struggled to represent the spherical Earth on flat sheets of parchment. They relied heavily on travelers' tales and theological assumptions, often filling unexplored regions with drawings of mythical beasts. However, the publication of Gerardus Mercator’s 1569 world map marked a seismic shift in navigation. By introducing a mathematical projection that preserved straight lines of constant bearing, Mercator provided mariners with an invaluable tool. While his map notoriously distorted the relative sizes of landmasses near the poles, it was not designed to depict true geographical scale. Instead, Mercator’s creation was a functional instrument meant to steer sailors safely across treacherous oceans.

Based on the passage, how does the phrase 'seismic shift' primarily function in the text?

  1. A
    suggest that Mercator’s map was created to study geological movements and earthquakes.
  2. B
    illustrate the specific mathematical errors that Mercator made in his polar calculations.
  3. emphasize the profound and revolutionary impact of Mercator's map on navigation.Answer
  4. D
    state that mapmakers immediately stopped drawing mythical beasts on their maps.

Answer

emphasize the profound and revolutionary impact of Mercator's map on navigation.
The correct answer correctly identifies that 'seismic shift' is used metaphorically. In the context of the sentence, Mercator's map is described as bringing an 'invaluable tool' to navigation, representing a monumental or revolutionary change in the field.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Locate the targeted phrase in the text.
The phrase 'seismic shift' appears in the sentence: 'However, the publication of Gerardus Mercator’s 1569 world map marked a seismic shift in navigation.'
This establishes the context in which the phrase is used.
2
Analyze the context surrounding the phrase to determine its rhetorical function.
The sentences following the phrase explain that Mercator provided mariners with an 'invaluable tool' that allowed them to 'steer sailors safely across treacherous oceans.' This context shows that 'seismic shift' describes the massive, revolutionary improvement his map made to navigation.
Rhetorical function is determined by looking at how the words contribute to the author's main point or tone in that section.
3
Evaluate the choices to find the one that matches this analysis.
The option stating that the phrase emphasizes the profound and revolutionary impact of Mercator's map on navigation directly aligns with the contextual meaning of a massive, positive change.
The correct option must accurately reflect the rhetorical purpose supported by the surrounding text.

Key Concept

Rhetorical Function of Specific Word Choices
Rate this question

Topics

Rhetorical Function of Specific Word Choices

More questions from this topic