Studying Literary Text Unit Test

Question

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Feature
“Come, come, cheer up, my dear father! ’Tis I—really I! They say joy never hurts, and so I came to you without any warning. Come now, do smile, instead of looking at me so solemnly. Here I am back again, and we are going to be happy.”

“Yes, yes, my boy, so we will—so we will,” replied the old man; “but how shall we be happy? Shall you never leave me again? Come, tell me all the good fortune that has befallen you.”

“God forgive me,” said the young man, “for rejoicing at happiness derived from the misery of others, but, Heaven knows, I did not seek this good fortune; it has happened, and I really cannot pretend to lament it. The good Captain Leclere is dead, father, and it is probable that, with the aid of M. Morrel, I shall have his place. Do you understand, father? Only imagine me a captain at twenty, with a hundred louis pay, and a share in the profits! Is this not more than a poor sailor like me could have hoped for?”

“Yes, my dear boy,” replied the old man, “it is very fortunate.”

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Question
Use the story excerpt to answer the question.

In 3–5 sentences, explain how Dantès contributes to the development of a theme. Provide samples from the text to support your answer.

(4 points)
Dantes contributes to the development of a theme by


Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

3
The answer is mostly clear.

The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.

There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

2
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is not clear.

There are few or no supporting details.

There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0 The question is not answered.

Answer 1

Dantès contributes to the development of the theme of happiness intertwined with suffering by expressing mixed emotions about his newfound fortune. He acknowledges that his good luck, attaining the position of captain at a young age, is a result of the "misery of others," specifically the death of Captain Leclere. This is evident when he states, "God forgive me...for rejoicing at happiness derived from the misery of others." His internal conflict highlights a significant theme that happiness often comes at a cost, demonstrating how personal success can be shadowed by the consequences faced by others. The juxtaposition of joy and sorrow in Dantès’ experience illustrates the complexity of human emotions in the pursuit of happiness.