What best describes the effect of the word fiend in this excerpt? it establishes the time period in which the story occurred by using language that is not typically used in today’s society. It develops the conflict by establishing the fact that judge lenon is unforgiving when he feels that someone has been unpatriotic. It enhances the theme of the story by suggesting that it is nearly impossible to receive a fair trial during this time period. It characterizes judge lenon as a corrupt judge who does not care to serve justice.