Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Practice Exam

Which of the following examples demonstrates homoioptoton?

1. "The boy's toys are too many."

2. "I can resist anything but temptation."

3. "He saw the larger picture."

4. "She came, she saw, she conquered."

The correct answer is: "She came, she saw, she conquered."

The example that demonstrates homoioptoton is "She came, she saw, she conquered." Homoioptoton is a rhetorical device characterized by the repetition of similar grammatical forms, particularly in the endings of words in a series. In this case, the verbs "came," "saw," and "conquered" all share a similar structure and phonetic rhythm, with a consistent pattern that emphasizes the triumphant actions of the subject. This use of parallel structure creates a powerful and memorable cadence, enhancing the impact of the statement. In contrast, the other options do not demonstrate this specific rhetorical device. The first option discusses a quantity but lacks any similar phonetic endings that would tie its components together. The second option includes contrasting ideas which disrupt the homoioptoton structure despite its rhythmic nature. The third option, while providing a clear image, does not utilize the repetition of grammatical forms in the same way. Thus, "She came, she saw, she conquered" stands out as the quintessential example of homoioptoton.