Question

1. What is the climax in Willa Cather's short story "Paul's Case"?

O A. Paul takes the train to New York.
O B. Paul meets the boy from Yale.
O C. Paul reads about his theft in the newspaper.
O D. Paul jumps in front of the train.

Answer 1

The climax in Willa Cather's "Paul's Case" is when Paul reads about his theft in the newspaper, marking the turning point in the story where he confronts the reality of his actions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The climax in Willa Cather's short story "Paul's Case" can be considered as the moment when Paul's conflict reaches its highest point, leading him to make a significant decision with irreversible consequences. The climax typically involves the protagonist facing a major showdown or challenge that will determine their fate. Based on the structure of most narratives, the climax is not when Paul takes the train to New York (Option A) or meets the boy from Yale (Option B). It is also not when Paul jumps in front of the train (Option D), as that is part of the falling action or resolution. Instead, the climax is when Paul reads about his theft in the newspaper (Option C), as it signifies the moment his fantasy begins to crumble and he is confronted with the reality and consequences of his actions.

Answer 2

The climax in Willa Cather's short story "Paul's Case" is: Paul takes the train to New York.