The Open Window by H.H. Munro (Saki)

Question

What does the contrast between Framton's expectations before arriving to the country house and his first experiences there reveal about the them of the story?

a. Mental peace come from within no necessarily from a relaxed setting
b. There are mischievous people everywhere who cannot be escaped
c. Tragedies happen more often in the country than in the city
d. There is a disconnect between people who live in rural areas and those who live in urban areas

Answer 1

In "The Open Window" by H.H. Munro (Saki), the contrast between Framton Nuttel's expectations of the country house as a place of relaxation and his experiences there reveals a. Mental peace comes from within, not necessarily from a relaxed setting.

Framton arrives with the hope of finding solace and peace in the countryside, but instead, he encounters a strange and unsettling situation that undermines his mental state. The narrative highlights that one's inner peace is not guaranteed by external circumstances, as Framton's anxiety and neurotic tendencies are exacerbated by the unexpected and eerie story told by the young girl about her aunt's tragedy. Thus, while he seeks comfort in the tranquility of the country, he is met with an experience that amplifies his discomfort, underscoring the theme of inner turmoil versus outer appearances.