Question

Read the excerpt from part one of Trifles.

HALE. I didn't hear or see anything; I knocked at the door, and still it was all quiet inside. I knew they must be
up, it was past eight o'clock. So I knocked again, and I thought I heard somebody say, "Come in." I wasn't
sure, I'm not sure yet, but I opened the door-this door (indicating the door by which the two women are still
standing), and there in that rocker-(pointing to it) sat Mrs. Wright. (They all look at the rocker.)
How does the underlined stage direction affect the mood of the scene?
O The emphasis on the rocker creates a tense mood as everyone is reminded of where Mrs. Wright calmly sat as
she discussed her dead husband.
O The emphasis on the rocker creates a hostile mood as the characters envision Mrs. Wright and the lack of
emotion she showed as she sat rocking.
O The emphasis on the rocker creates a calm mood as the reader is reminded of something that is typically used to
pacify or soothe individuals.
O The emphasis on the rocker creates a warm mood as the reader becomes focused on something that is often
associated with fond memories.
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Answer 1

The underlined stage direction creates a calm mood by reminding the reader of something soothing and relaxing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The underlined stage direction affects the mood of the scene by creating a calm mood as the reader is reminded of something that is typically used to pacify or soothe individuals. Rocking chairs are often associated with relaxation and comfort. This contrast of the calm image of a rocking chair with the tension and seriousness of the situation in the play creates an eerie and unsettling mood.

Learn more about The effect of stage directions on the mood of a scene