Understanding the Meaning of "Made a Scapegoat"

The question asks for the meaning of the underlined phrase "made a scapegoat" in the sentence: "In spite of his hard work, he was made a scapegoat for the failure of the project". Let's break down this phrase.

What is a Scapegoat?

A scapegoat is a person who is blamed for the wrongdoings, mistakes, or faults of others, especially for reasons of expediency. Often, the scapegoat is innocent or only partially responsible, but they take the full blame.

Analyzing the Sentence Context

The sentence states, "In spite of his hard work, he was made a scapegoat for the failure of the project". The phrase "In spite of his hard work" is key here. It suggests that despite putting in significant effort, he was still blamed for the project's failure. This reinforces the idea that the blame might have been unfair or unreasonable, as his hard work suggests he was trying to contribute positively, not cause failure.

Evaluating the Options

Let's look at the provided options:

• Option 1: Freed from any responsibility for
  This is the opposite of being blamed. Being made a scapegoat means taking on responsibility or blame, even if unfairly. So, this option is incorrect.
• Option 2: Suspected of causing
  While a scapegoat might be suspected, the term "made a scapegoat" usually implies that blame was actually assigned, not just suspected. The blame is laid upon them, often definitively, not just a matter of suspicion.
• Option 3: Blamed without reason for
  This option fits perfectly with the definition of a scapegoat and the context of the sentence. Being blamed "without reason" aligns with taking blame unfairly or for something you weren't truly responsible for, especially when the sentence highlights his hard work (implying he shouldn't be blamed).
• Option 4: Was severely punished for
  Being a scapegoat means receiving blame. While punishment might follow the blame, the phrase "made a scapegoat" specifically refers to the act of being blamed, not necessarily the severity of any subsequent punishment.

Conclusion

Based on the definition of "scapegoat" and the context provided in the sentence, the phrase "made a scapegoat for the failure of the project" most nearly means that he was blamed unfairly or "blamed without reason for" the failure, despite his efforts.

Therefore, the meaning that best expresses the phrase "made a scapegoat" in this context is "Blamed without reason for".

Revision Table: Key Vocabulary

Let's review some related terms or concepts:

Additional Information: Origin of "Scapegoat"

The term "scapegoat" has origins in ancient religious practices. In the Old Testament, on the Day of Atonement, two goats were chosen. One was sacrificed, and the high priest would symbolically lay the sins of the community upon the head of the other goat, which was then driven into the wilderness. This goat "carried away" the sins of the people, hence becoming a "scapegoat" (from "escape goat"). Over time, the term evolved to mean a person who is unfairly blamed for the problems of others.

Understanding the origin helps to grasp the depth of the meaning – it implies someone bearing the burden of blame that rightfully belongs elsewhere or is shared among many.