Question

Paulina, who orchestrates the entire scene—and who ostensibly commissioned the statue—seems [remarkably unsurprised] by the "miracle," and she is, after all, our only witness to the fact that Hermione actually died. Her behavior in the years since suggests a foreknowledge of her queen's return, as she steadfastly kept the king fixated on his own guilt, and on the impossibility of ever marrying again. On the other hand, if the entire business is only a trick, it seems rather an over-the-top stunt for two level-headed women like Hermione and Paulina to orchestrate. And no one who witnesses the miracle raises even a scrap of doubt as to whether the statue was ever an actual statue. Clearly, Shakespeare wants to have it both ways—a genuine miracle to cap off his "Tale," and a hint of a naturalistic explanation for the careful reader. And in either case, [the miracle is an appropriate conclusion to the play, since it provides for a truly happy ending that Hermione's death seemed to place out of reach.]

Answer 1

The miracle at the end of the play is fitting because it ensures a genuinely happy ending that appeared unattainable after Hermione's death.

Step-by-step explanation:

Paulina's Role:

Paraphrase: Paulina, the mastermind behind the entire scene and the one who apparently commissioned the statue, remains remarkably unsurprised by the "miracle."

Explanation: Paulina's lack of surprise suggests a deeper understanding or foreknowledge of the events, adding an intriguing layer to the unfolding events.

Behavior and Foreknowledge:

Paraphrase: Paulina's subsequent behavior indicates a foreknowledge of Hermione's return, as she strategically keeps the king focused on guilt, dissuading him from remarrying.

Explanation: Paulina's actions imply a level of orchestration beyond a simple trick, raising questions about the nature of the miracle.

Over-the-Top Stunt:

Paraphrase: If the entire affair is a trick, it seems an excessive stunt for rational characters like Hermione and Paulina.

Explanation: The narrative ambiguity around whether it's a genuine miracle or an elaborate scheme adds complexity and depth to the play.

Witnesses and Doubt:

Paraphrase: No one witnessing the miracle questions whether the statue was initially a real statue.

Explanation: The lack of doubt among witnesses adds an element of certainty to the miraculous event, leaving the audience to ponder its authenticity.

Shakespeare's Intent:

Paraphrase: Shakespeare aims to present both a genuine miracle and a hint of a naturalistic explanation for discerning readers.

Explanation: The dual interpretation allows for a rich and multifaceted conclusion, catering to different audience perspectives.

Appropriate Conclusion:

Paraphrase: The miracle serves as a fitting conclusion, providing a genuinely happy ending that seemed unattainable after Hermione's death.

Explanation: The miraculous resolution elevates the play's overall tone, delivering the desired joyful conclusion.