In a prescribed prose text, after long-standing tension between the traditional council and the newly appointed district officer, Chief Obike unexpectedly surrenders his ancestral staff of office to the officer at a public gathering, prompting his eldest son to publicly renounce his heirship. Which of the following best analyzes the narrative significance of Chief Obike's action in the progression of the plot?
- It functions as the major narrative turning point that shifts the central conflict from political resistance to an irreconcilable generational rupture within the chief's family.Answer
- BIt serves as the plot's resolution, bringing a peaceful and harmonious end to colonial intervention in the village.
- CIt constitutes a minor supporting detail designed merely to illustrate the chief's advancing age and physical frailty.
- DIt proves that the eldest son had been secretly conspiring with the district officer to overthrow his father prior to the summit.
Answer
Chief Obike's action functions as the major narrative turning point that shifts the central conflict from political resistance to an irreconcilable generational rupture within the chief's family.
The surrender of the staff of office fundamentally alters the direction of the narrative. Rather than resolving the plot, it escalates the stakes by creating a deep internal and familial breach alongside the external political tension, acting as a pivotal turning point.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Plot Turning Points and Narrative Escalation