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.

Answer 1

The underlined stage direction creates a calm mood as it reminds the reader of something soothing. It also adds depth to the scene.

Step-by-step explanation:

The underlined stage direction in the excerpt from part one of Trifles 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. The setting of Mrs. Wright sitting in the rocker, a symbol of comfort and relaxation, contrasts with the tension surrounding the investigation into her husband's death. This contrast adds depth to the scene and highlights the significance of the rocker as a potential clue.

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