Page 1168 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing
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emphasize the seriousness of this crime?
9. Reread Sandra Abbott’s statement in paragraph 3. The
answer to her question, “Did he rape me?” ultimately requires
Abbott to define the word rape. How do you define rape? Based
on your definition, how would Abbott’s question be answered?
10. The author writes, “‘Having sex’ implies intimacy, caring,
communication, and, most important of all, consent.” In your
opinion, which of the four listed items is implied most strongly
by the words having sex? Why? Which is implied least
strongly? Why?
Discussing the Essay
Prepare to discuss the following questions in class by thinking about
them or writing about them in your journal.
1. According to the author, how did the ancient Babylonians
define rape? How did this definition affect women? What does
your answer suggest about the power of language? About the
power of those who define it?
