Step-by-step explanation:
Without knowing the specific story that is being referred to, I cannot provide a detailed analysis. However, in general, beginning a story with the history of an object, such as a statue, can contribute to its significance in the overall narrative by establishing its importance and setting up a thematic connection between the past and present.
For example, if the statue has a rich history or cultural significance, the reader can appreciate its value and understand why it might be important to the characters in the story. By providing a historical context for the object, the author can also establish a sense of continuity and connection between the past and present, highlighting the ways in which the object has endured over time and the significance it holds for future generations.
In terms of its contribution to a disagreement between James and his mother, the significance of the statue's history may depend on the specific details of the story. However, it is possible that the history of the statue could be used to support either James's or his mother's perspective on its value. For example, if James is arguing that the statue is a valuable family heirloom that should be preserved, the history of the statue could be used to show how it has been passed down through generations and is an important symbol of the family's history and identity. On the other hand, if James's mother believes that the statue should be sold or discarded, the history of the statue could be used to demonstrate how it has lost its significance over time and is no longer relevant to the family's values or beliefs.