Question

Now his maternal grandmother lived at Huang-kang, and on one occasion when young Chen was paying her a visit he heard some one say that of the four yuns at huang chou the youngest had no peer. This remark referred to some very nice looking nuns who lived in a temple a few miles from his grandmother's house. How does this section help readers understand the historical context of the story?
The section reveals the importance of nuns during this time.
The section demonstrates the importance of family ties during the time the story takes place.
The section shows how normal it was for young people to go against their family wishes
The section illustrates how yo behave when visiting a grandparents town

Answer 1

The section helps readers understand the historical context of the story primarily by demonstrating the importance of family ties during the time the story takes place. The mention of young Chen visiting his maternal grandmother establishes a familial connection that is significant in many cultures, indicating the value placed on relationships with elders and the customs surrounding family visits. Additionally, the reference to nuns and the admiration for their beauty may reflect the cultural and societal views of women and religious figures during that period, adding depth to the understanding of social hierarchies and community values. Thus, while it also touches on other themes, the emphasis on family ties stands out as a key element in this context.