At the end of the first paragraph, the author compares English words to “amulets” primarily to

C

emphasize the extent of the power he ascribed to language

Explanation:

thats what ap classroom said

C) emphasize the extent of the power he ascribed to language

Explanation:

When describing how he sought to protect himself from stereotyping by developing a mastery of English, the author could have chosen a more neutral way to describe words, such as “defenses,” or a less vivid image, such as “shields.” By comparing English words to “amulets”—magical objects that provide protection—the author suggests that he invested English words with the same supernatural powers that such objects are said provide.