GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsReading ComprehensionMedium
A historian is examining two primary source documents about the American Civil War. Document A is a letter from a Confederate soldier describing the hardships of camp life and his longing for home. Document B is an excerpt from a Union general's official battle report, detailing troop movements and strategic objectives. Which of the following statements best describes the difference in point of view between these two documents?
- ADocument A presents a strategic overview, while Document B offers a personal perspective.
- BDocument A focuses on the emotional impact of war, while Document B details military operations.
- CDocument A provides a civilian's viewpoint, while Document B offers a soldier's viewpoint.
- DDocument A is biased towards the Confederacy, and Document B is biased towards the Union.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Document A focuses on the emotional impact of war, while Document B details military operations.
Document A, a soldier's letter, naturally conveys personal feelings and experiences (emotional impact). Document B, a general's battle report, focuses on the factual, tactical aspects of military operations.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This statement reverses the characteristics; Document A is personal, Document B is strategic.
- C. Both documents are from military personnel (soldier and general), not a civilian.
- D. While both authors have inherent biases, the question asks about the difference in *point of view* as expressed in the content, not just their allegiance.
Point of View: Perspective
The particular attitude or way of considering a matter, influenced by the author's background, role, and purpose.
- Can be first-person (I, we), second-person (you), or third-person (he, she, they).
- Influences what details are included and how they are presented.
- Different perspectives offer different insights into the same event.
Memory trick: Who is telling the tale, and what do they see?