Refer to Explorations in Literature for a complete version of the text.

Read this excerpt from "A Letter from Birmingham Jail" by Martin Luther King Jr.:

I hope you are able to see the distinction I am trying to point out. In no sense do I advocate evading or defying the law, as would the rabid segregationist.

Which statement best describes the connotative meaning of the word rabid?

A)It has a positive connotation, suggesting a genuine depth of feeling.

B)It has a negative connotation, suggesting a dangerous fanaticism.

C)It has a negative connotation, suggesting a severe lack of intelligence.

D)It has a positive connotation, suggesting a level of grudging respect.

Martin Luther King Jr's Letter from Birmingham Jail was written during his imprisonment. He was locked up as a consequence of his and others' peaceful protests against the treatment of African-Americans in Birmingham at the time.

In the letter he refuses and condemns the violent and illegal means others might employ to defend their beliefs. For him those are the characteristics of rabid segregationists - white supremacists who supported racial separation.

As opposed to their fanatic beliefs and actions, Martin Luther King Jr refuses any law-defying action and only approves non violent protests.