In the excerpt from Frederick Douglass's autobiography, the use of the phrase "I was seldom whipped by my old master, and suffered little from anything else than hunger and cold" can be seen as establishing ethos through:
A. Emotional language:
By describing his experience of suffering more from hunger and cold rather than physical punishment, Douglass appeals to the reader's emotions and creates a sense of empathy towards his plight. This emotional appeal helps to establish his credibility and reliability as a narrator by showcasing his vulnerability and the harsh conditions he endured. The emotional impact of his words can evoke a sense of sympathy and understanding from the audience, strengthening the connection between the reader and Douglass's narrative.