SAT #17 Reading (Questions 40-41)

Question

In the passage, Burke displays the greatest respect for which of the following?

Answer 1

Answer Choices B and D are the correct answers because Lines 81-84 say, “Let us imitate their caution if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests. Let us add, if we please, but let us preserve what they have left; [...],” where “they” refers to “our forefathers.” These Lines tell us that Burke has immense respect for former British leaders. For Question 41, Answer Choice A is incorrect because these Lines show Burke suggesting to the British that they encourage France to follow their own example and not follow France’s. Answer Choice B is incorrect because it only shows Burke admitting that the British may have some reason to complain, but argues that this is because of their own behavior and not their constitution. Answer Choice C is incorrect because these Lines show Burke making the case that the British will find their own expression of freedom and patriotism in how they protect their own constitution, and not anything about something that he respects. For Question 40, Answer Choice A is incorrect because the “they” from Lines 81-84 refers to Burke’s “forefathers” or former British leaders, and not the general voting public. Answer Choice C is incorrect because Burke advises the British against taking inspiration from the French, and doesn’t suggest any respect for them. Answer Choice D is incorrect because Burke doesn’t suggest any respect for the leaders of France’s former government in either the Passage or Texts.