Why not C?

The sentence is divided into two parts connected by "similarly," indicating that the two blanks are parallel in tone and meaning.
1. First Part: "The virtual (i) $\qquad$ of John F. Kennedy focuses on his presidential achievements, legend, and assassination."
- This suggests that the blank (i) describes how JFK is portrayed or remembered, likely in a positive light given the focus on "achievements" and "legend."
2. Second Part: "Similarly, as a candidate, verbal and written (ii) $\qquad$ were laid at the altar of his wartime exploits."
- The phrase "laid at the altar" implies offerings or tributes, so blank (ii) should reflect praise or admiration directed at his wartime exploits.

Analyzing Blank (i)
We need a noun that describes how JFK is virtually portrayed, emphasizing his achievements and legend. The options are:
- (A) deification: Treating someone like a god; extreme glorification.
- Fits well, as JFK's legacy is often mythologized.
- (B) excoriation: Harsh criticism.
- Doesn't fit; the context is positive.
- (C) adoration: Deep love or respect.
- Also fits, but "deification" is stronger and more specific to myth-making.

Best choice for (i): (A) deification (more intense and fitting for "virtual" glorification).

Analyzing Blank (ii)
We need a plural noun for "verbal and written" things that were tributes to his wartime exploits. The options are:
- (D) calumnies: False and malicious statements; slander.
- Negative; doesn't fit the tribute context.
- (E) garlands: Literally wreaths of flowers; figuratively, praises or honors.
- Fits perfectly as a metaphor for tributes.
- (F) obloquies: Strong public criticism or verbal abuse.
- Negative; doesn't fit.

Best choice for (ii): (E) garlands (symbolizing praise).

Verifying Parallelism
The "similarly" confirms that both blanks should align in tone:
- (i) "deification" (extreme praise) pairs well with (ii) "garlands" (tributes).
- Other combinations either mismatch tone (e.g., deification + calumnies) or are weaker (adoration + garlands).

Why Not Other Options?
- (C) adoration: While acceptable, "deification" is more precise for myth-making.
- (D)/(F) calumnies/obloquies: Contradict the positive context.
- (B) excoriation: Entirely negative; inappropriate here.

Final Answer
Blank (i): A. deification
Blank (ii): E. garlands
Correct Pair: A and E