Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Practice Exam

What does the term "persona" mean in the context of a speaker's communication?

1. The actual personality of the speaker

2. The mask or character presented to the audience

3. The emotional state of the audience

4. The cultural background of the speaker

The correct answer is: The mask or character presented to the audience

In the context of a speaker's communication, "persona" refers to the mask or character that the speaker adopts while addressing an audience. This concept emphasizes that the speaker may present a version of themselves that aligns with the message they are conveying or the audience they are addressing, rather than revealing their true self. The persona can be a strategic choice that allows the speaker to connect more effectively with the audience or to convey a specific tone, attitude, or point of view. A speaker's persona shapes how they are perceived, influencing the audience's emotional and intellectual engagement with the message. It may include the speaker's tone, language, and the overall character they embody during the interaction. This is distinct from the actual personality of the speaker, which is often more complex and nuanced than the persona presented in a specific communication scenario. The emotional state of the audience and the cultural background of the speaker are also relevant elements in communication but do not define the concept of persona in this context.