Cannibalism in the Cars by Mark Twain I visited St. Louis lately, and on my way West, after changing cars at Terre Haute, Indiana, a mild, benevolent-looking gentleman of about forty-five, or maybe fifty, came in at one of the way-stations and sat down beside me. We talked together pleasantly on various subjects for an hour, perhaps, and I found him exceedingly intelligent and entertaining. "Cannibalism in the Cars" by Mark Twain Question Use the passage to answer the question. How does the author’s use of the multiple-meaning word mild affect the reader’s understanding of the gentleman? (1 point) Responses The gentleman seems extreme and severe. The gentleman seems extreme and severe. The gentleman is noble and proper. The gentleman is noble and proper. The gentleman has a bland personality. The gentleman has a bland personality. The gentleman has a gentle and kind demeanor.

Answer 1

The author's use of the multiple-meaning word "mild" affects the reader’s understanding of the gentleman by suggesting that he has a gentle and kind demeanor. The word "mild" typically connotes softness, gentleness, and a lack of harshness, which contributes to the reader's perception of him as benign and pleasant rather than extreme or severe. Thus, the correct response is: The gentleman has a gentle and kind demeanor.