The following text is adapted from an essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson, published in 1836. If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore; and preserve for many generations the remembrance of the city of God which had been shown! But every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile. The stars awaken a certain reverence, because though always present, they are inaccessible; but all natural objects make a kindred impression, when the mind is open to their influence.
Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?
To suggest that human appreciation of nature is dulled by its constant presence.
To argue that the stars are the only natural phenomenon worthy of true reverence.
To explain the astronomical cycles that cause stars to appear nightly.
To criticize future generations for failing to preserve historical records.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. Emerson uses a hypothetical scenario (stars appearing once in a thousand years) to show how much we would value them if they were rare. He contrasts this with reality ("every night come out these envoys"), implying that because they are always present, we fail to "believe and adore" them as we should.
Choice B is incorrect because Emerson states that "all natural objects make a kindred impression," indicating that stars are not the only things worthy of reverence. Choice C is incorrect because the text is philosophical, not scientific; it does not explain the mechanics of astronomy. Choice D is incorrect because the text discusses the "remembrance" of the stars in a hypothetical context, not actual historical records.