Question

In what way does the following line from James Joyce's "Araby" contribute to the symbolism of the story?

She was waiting for us, her figure defined by the light from the half-opened door.

Mangan's sister's attractive figure symbolizes the better life the narrator expects when he is older and has escaped his dark neighborhood.

The light mentioned here works symbolically with the "half-opened door" motif to suggest the narrator's confusion about what path to take in life.

Mangan's sister is associated with light in the story's imagery because she is part of the narrator's hopes for a greater life.

The partial light reflects the sense of balance that the narrator seeks but finds missing in his "blind" street and dark neighborhood.

Mangan's sister, who is half-cloaked in light, symbolizes the dark buildings and bright lights of the enchanting East.

please help

Answer 1

The answer is

C. Mangan's sister is associated with light in the story's imagery because she is part of the narrator's hopes for a greater life.

Step-by-step explanation:

I just took the test on Plato and this is the correct answer.

Answer 2

I believe the correct answer is the fourth option - The partial light reflects the sense of balance that the narrator seeks but finds missing in his "blind" street and dark neighborhood.
The narrator is constantly seeking balance in his life, but ultimately failing to find it. He seeks his light in the form of Mangan's sister and thinks she will finally give him what he needs, however, the darkness in his life is still overpowering.