Harry is trying to convince Harriet that the greatest movie hero of all time was Mr. Smith in The Matrix. When he has finished making his case, Harriet responds by calling him an idiot. According to politeness theory, Harriet is threatening:
A) Harry's positive face
B) Harry's negative face
C) Harry's neutral face
D) Harry's emotional face
E) Harry's logical face

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Harriet is threatening Harry's positive face, which is his desire to be liked, admired, and approved of by others. She is insulting his opinion and asserting her own superiority, thereby challenging his positive face.

Harry Is Trying to Convince Harriet That the Greatest Movie