This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B.

Question

Instructions for Student
Reread this excerpt from paragraph 5 of the story. Then answer the multiple-choice questions that follow.

From “The Refusal” by Franz Kafka
5 On this occasion, too, the man chosen to speak could not begin, he was already standing opposite the colonel when his courage failed him and, muttering a few excuses, he pushed his way back into the crowd. No other suitable person willing to speak could be found, albeit several unsuitable ones offered themselves; a great commotion ensued and messengers went in search of various citizens who were well-known speakers. During all this time the colonel stood there motionless, only his chest moving visibly up and down to his breathing. Not that he breathed with difficulty, it was just that he breathed so conspicuously, much as frogs breathe—except that with them it is normal, while here it was exceptional. I squeezed myself through the grownups and watched him through a gap between two soldiers, until one of them kicked me away with his knee. Meanwhile the man originally chosen to speak had regained his composure and, firmly held up by two fellow citizens, was delivering his address. It was touching to see him smile throughout this solemn speech describing a grievous misfortune—a most humble smile which strove in vain to elicit some slight reaction on the colonel’s face. Finally he formulated the request—I think he was only asking for a year’s tax exemption, but possibly also for timber from the imperial forests at a reduced price. Then he bowed low, as did everyone else except the colonel, the soldiers, and a number of officials in the background.


Flag question: Question 1

Based on context clues in the passage, what is most likely the meaning of the word composure?

Group of answer choices

A. ability to persuade

D. feeling of loss of control

B. desire to run away or flee

C. state of being calm and in control


Flag question: Question 2

What evidence from the text supports the answer to Part A?

Group of answer choices

A. “...he was already standing opposite the colonel when his courage failed him and, muttering a few excuses, he pushed his way back into the crowd.”

D. “Then he bowed low, as did everyone else except the colonel, the soldiers, and a number of officials in the background.”

C. “Not that he breathed with difficulty, it was just that he breathed so conspicuously, much as frogs breathe…”

B. “It was touching to see him smile throughout this solemn speech describing a grievous misfortune…”

Answer 1

Part A

Question 1: Based on context clues in the passage, what is most likely the meaning of the word composure?

Answer: C. state of being calm and in control

Part B

Question 2: What evidence from the text supports the answer to Part A?

Answer: B. “It was touching to see him smile throughout this solemn speech describing a grievous misfortune…”

This evidence suggests that the man was maintaining a calm appearance (smiling) even while discussing a serious topic (grievous misfortune), indicating a state of composure.