As soon as the sun was up the guards came to lead the young prisoners to the Labyrinth. They did not see the sword which Theseus had under his cloak, nor the tiny ball of silk which he held in his closed hand. They led the youths and maidens a long way into the Labyrinth, turning here and there, back and forth, a thousand different times, until it seemed certain that they could never find their way out again. Then the guards, by a secret passage which they alone knew, went out and left them, as they had left many others before, to wander about until they should be found by the terrible Minotaur.

Question

–“The Cruel Tribute,”
James Baldwin

How does the author create suspense in the passage? Check all that apply.

by placing characters in a labyrinth
by describing the labyrinth
by revealing Theseus’s concealed sword
by waiting until sunrise
by leaving the characters all alone

Answer 1

The author creates suspense in the passage through the following methods:

1. By placing characters in a labyrinth - A labyrinth is inherently confusing and disorienting, which builds tension as the characters navigate it.
2. By describing the labyrinth - Descriptions that emphasize the complexity and seemingly inescapable nature of the labyrinth heighten suspense.
3. By revealing Theseus’s concealed sword - The mention of a hidden weapon implies a potential conflict or confrontation, creating anticipation.
4. By leaving the characters all alone - The abandonment of the characters heightens the feeling of danger and isolation, increasing suspense.

The option "by waiting until sunrise" does not directly contribute to suspense in this passage. It primarily sets the time for the events but does not enhance the immediate tension.