How does Thoreau’s use of rhetorical questions contribute to the persuasiveness and message in “Excerpt from ‘Civil Disobedience?’”

Thoreau's usage of several rhetorical questions upon one another helps eloquently establish a rhythm to present similar, but different argumentative key points. Moreover, it gives a rhythm to the text right off the start. Ultimately, it enables him to set up his argument against morals and values that he claims are being controlled by the government, and as well setting an argument for individualism.

Explanation:

The author does not make many direct statements; however, he does use the device of rhetorical questions that are meant to not be answered by neither the reader nor the text.

the statement that identifies the central idea of "the salem and other witch trail hunts" is d. while witch hunts may feel like a rare occurrence, mike kubic proves that such   incidents are not as uncommon as we originally thought.

the author is trying to show that witch hunts come in various forms and are produced by the fear of what isn't understood or it's different.