Question

In at least 150 words, explain the motivation of Jerry’s mother in "Through the Tunnel" and how her motivation advances the plot of the short story.

Answer 1

Choose the best synonym for the word incredulous as it is used in this excerpt from Doris Lessing’s short story "Through the Tunnel."

Answer 2

As the reader can infer Jerry's mom does not want to be too controlling of Jerry and wants to let him explore and learn some life experiences by himself. Due to this Jerry is able to go by himself to another section of the water away from the "safe beach" by himself. Although this might seem to be just a minor gesture by his mom this act actually sets the base for the whole plot of the story. If Jerry had not been to the other section of the water he would not have found the underwater tunnel that the whole story is focused around, nor the other boys in the water he was trying to impress by making it through the tunnel. That being said the rest of the story simply involves him planning how he will make it through the tunnel and practicing holding his breath which all leads up to him actually making it through the tunnel successfully and alive.