Read the excerpt below carefully:
'For three decades, Father Anselm had tended the stone chapel at Saint Jude’s, his hands calloused from hauling firewood and his eyes dimming under grey brows. When the town council announced the demolition decree to build a tramway, he did not weep or shout. Instead, he carefully polished the brass candlesticks, set them neatly in a wooden crate, and remarked to the parish clerk, "Progress is a noisy beast, Thomas; we must be sure not to disturb its breakfast." Thomas wrung his cap, staring at the floorboards as rain pelted the stained-glass windows.'
Which of the following correctly describes Father Anselm's characterization and tone in response to the impending destruction of the chapel?
- He is portrayed as stoic and resigned, utilizing a wryly ironic tone to cloak his quiet disapproval.Answer
- BHe is portrayed as indifferent and detached, maintaining a solemn mood that reflects his total despair.
- CHe is portrayed as naive and oblivious, employing a purely humorous tone because he fails to grasp the situation.
- DHe is portrayed as aggressive and rebellious, using a sarcastic tone to incite the clerk to revolt.
Answer
Father Anselm is portrayed as stoic and resigned, utilizing a wryly ironic tone to cloak his quiet disapproval.
The correct interpretation accurately identifies that Father Anselm's calm, deliberate actions reflect a stoic character, while his figurative remark regarding 'progress' conveys a subtle, wry irony rather than overt emotion or hostility.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Interpretation of Characterization, Tone, and Mood in Unseen Prose