Rainsford needs control of his emotions to overcome his largest conflict, General Zaroff. At first, when he finds out he is going to be hunted, his instinct is to run in a panic, but he stops to look around and get a handle on the situation. Then, when Zaroff finds him hiding in a tree, Rainsford panics again, knowing Zaroff is playing with him. Once more, he controls his emotions and focuses on forming a plan. Even when the general is hot on his heels with a pack of dogs, Rainsford keeps his calm. Clearly, his self-control helps him win the game.

Which revision would help expand the ideas in this passage?

adding a clear description of Rainsford’s overall conflict
adding details about how Rainsford panicked during each conflict
adding an explanation of how Rainsford kept his calm while being chased by dogs

1 answer

Adding a clear description of Rainsford’s overall conflict would help expand the ideas in this passage. This would provide more context about the stakes of the situation and deepen the reader's understanding of Rainsford’s struggle against General Zaroff, highlighting the significance of maintaining self-control in the face of such a dire threat. More background on the nature of his conflict would enhance the overall narrative and connect the specific moments of panic and control to a larger theme.