Final answer:
The author supports the idea that Tell's punishment is cruel through the words of Gesler, who orders Tell to shoot the apple off his son's head.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "The Archer of Schwitz," the author supports the idea that Tell's punishment is cruel through the words of Gesler. The author presents Gesler as the one who orders Tell to shoot the apple off his son's head as a punishment. This act of endangering Tell's son's life highlights the cruelty of Tell's punishment, as it puts an innocent child at risk for no justifiable reason. This is shown in the text where the tyrant, Gesler, uses his power oppressively and without justice. The cruelty is further highlighted by the reactions of the characters, including nobles, who are horrified by the extent of the tyrannical actions and the harsh punishment inflicted upon Tell.