Why is the phrase "purple host" ambiguous?

a) because it's unclear whether or not the poet intends for the reader to take the example figuratively or literally
b) because "purple host" may refer to royalty or government or it could just be arbitrary
c) both of these

Purple host could be ambiguous, or not clear, because of the figure of speech and the double meanings. Purple host could be taken literally as a host with a skin pallor of purple. But it could also mean that the host is feeling proud, hence they use the color purple as symbolism. Also, it could mean one way or another. Hence, the answer is letter C.

The correct answer is d