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 in the scene.

Step-by-step explanation:

The underlined stage direction in the excerpt affect the mood of the scene by creating a calm mood. The emphasis on the rocker reminds the reader of something that is typically used to pacify or soothe individuals. The rocker symbolizes a sense of comfort and relaxation, suggesting that despite the unsettling situation, Mrs. Wright maintained a calm demeanor.

Learn more about The effect of stage direction on mood in a scene