Passage - General Questions

[Administrator]

Passage Discussion

VIEWSTAMP Analysis:

This explanation is still in progress. Please post any questions below!

[ashirachugh]

Hi Team - could you please share the breakdown of this passage. I am confused on the structure of the passage and how lines 13 to 21 serve the passage. Any help would be appreciated - thank you!

[Rachael Wilkenfeld]

Hi ashirachugh

This is how I would break this passage down.

Viewpoint: Pocock, author (says "fruitful" in regards to Pocock's work), Naimer (in opposite to Pocock)

Structure: Starts with thesis on language analysis, moves to an example from the 18th century, provides example where Pocock is less convincing, concludes by saying that Pocock was generally correct.

Tone: Positive toward Pocock's theories. Language: fruitful, applaud the historian

Argument: Pocock's theory that political theory can only be understood in light of the linguistic constraints of the author was generally correct. We see it apply particularly well in 18th century England, though it is less applicable in 18th century America. That said, his work has been helpful in shaping the conversation about political theory.

Main point: Pocock's approach, while not perfect, provides a helpful model for understanding historical political theory.

Hope that helps!