Question 11

What effect does the ending have on the passage's overall meaning?

A. It creates a tragic effect, implying that the Father Superior lives out the remainder of his life alone in the monastery.

B. It creates a hopeful effect, implying that the monks will return to the monastery having enjoyed their town experience.

C. It creates an ironic effect, implying that the Father Superior's description of the "evil" in town was actually enticing to the moral monks.

D. It creates a satisfying effect, implying that the Father Superior's story was so illustrative that it persuaded the monks to try to help the townspeople themselves.

1 answer

To determine the effect of the ending on the passage's overall meaning, we need to analyze each option in relation to the context provided by the passage.

A. This option suggests a tragic outcome for the Father Superior, indicating a life of isolation. If the ending emphasizes loneliness and despair, this could be a valid interpretation, but it would depend on the specific language used in the passage.

B. If the passage conveys a sense of joy or fulfillment as the monks return to the monastery, then this would indicate a hopeful outcome. The nature of their experience in town would be crucial to support this interpretation.

C. An ironic ending would suggest a contradiction between the Father Superior's views on the town's "evil" and the monks' actual reactions. This option hinges on a twist or surprise that reveals an unexpected response.

D. A satisfying ending implies that the monks were moved to take action based on the Father Superior's story. This would indicate a positive outcome and a sense of responsibility inspired by the narrative.

Without the specific context of the passage to analyze the tone and content of the ending, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer. You may want to consider the main themes and conclusions found in the passage to choose the most appropriate option.