What is the purpose of the first paragraph

Describe a theme that the author develops through these two excerpts. then analyze how the two excerpts interact and build on one another to develop this theme. be sure to use specific details from the text to support your ideas.

Who said this in of pride & prejudice, and what type of irony does it show? “you mistake me, my dear. i have a high respect for your nerves. they are my old friends. i have heard you mention them with consideration these twenty years at least.” a. mrs. bennet: situational irony b. mr. bingley: dramatic irony c. elizabeth: proverbial irony d. mr. bennet: verbal irony

Maria is writing a persuasive essay for her english class. she asks marshall if it is important to use rhetorical appeals in her essay. which reasons could marshall give in favor of using rhetorical appeals