The passage exemplifies realism primarily because it is about people in their everyday lives. Realism as a literary movement focuses on depicting ordinary experiences, common people, and the mundane aspects of life. In this excerpt, the focus is on the early morning activities of various characters, such as lovers strolling to the wharf, a lady in black with her prayer-book, and an old man who decides to follow her. The details provided evoke a sense of normalcy and routine, characteristic of realistic literature.
Most of the people at that early hour were still in bed and asleep. A few, who intended to go over to the Cheniere for mass, were moving about. The lovers, who had laid their plans the night before, were already strolling toward the wharf. The lady in black, with her Sunday prayer-book, velvet and gold-clasped, and her Sunday silver beads, was following them at no great distance. Old Monsieur Farival was up, and was more than half inclined to do anything that suggested itself. He put on his big straw hat, and taking his umbrella from the stand in the hall, followed the lady in black, never overtaking her.
—The Awakening,
Kate Chopin
What makes this passage an example of realism?
It contains powerful language.
It includes words with negative connotations.
It describes an over-the-top problem.
It is about people in their everyday lives.
3 answers
The youngster was in his long white nightgown, that kept tripping him up as Madame Ratignolle led him along by the hand. With the other chubby fist he rubbed his eyes, which were heavy with sleep and ill humor. Edna took him in her arms, and seating herself in the rocker, began to coddle and caress him, calling him all manner of tender names, soothing him to sleep.
—The Awakening,
Kate Chopin
What does this passage reveal about Edna?
She is not used to caring for her children.
She cares about her children.
She would rather not be taking care of children.
She does not know how to be affectionate to children.
—The Awakening,
Kate Chopin
What does this passage reveal about Edna?
She is not used to caring for her children.
She cares about her children.
She would rather not be taking care of children.
She does not know how to be affectionate to children.
This passage reveals that she cares about her children. Edna's actions of taking the child in her arms, seating herself in the rocker, and coddling and caressing him with tender names indicate a nurturing and affectionate demeanor. Despite the mention of the child being in a state of "ill humor," Edna's attempt to soothe him shows her concern and desire to provide comfort. This suggests that she has a capacity for care and affection toward her children.
3 answers