Question

Near the end of “The Medicine Bag,” Grandpa gives Martin the medicine bag and says, “[You] need not wear it.” What do these words show most clearly about Grandpa’s thinking?

A. Grandpa knows that the medicine bag has power even if Martin does not wear it.
B. Grandpa realizes that the medicine bag will be more meaningful at a later time.
C. Grandpa feels sad that Martin does not want to wear the medicine bag.
D. Grandpa understands that Martin is uncomfortable about his heritage.

Answer 1

The statement “[You] need not wear it” from Grandpa most clearly shows that **D. Grandpa understands that Martin is uncomfortable about his heritage.** This indicates that Grandpa is acknowledging Martin's feelings and providing him the choice, rather than forcing him to embrace their cultural identity before he is ready.