Question

Xcepting the group of four at the center of the bridge, not a man moved. the company faced the bridge, staring stonily, motionless. the sentinels, facing the banks of the stream, might have been statues to adorn the bridge. the captain stood with folded arms, silent, observing the work of his subordinates, but making no sign. death is a dignitary who when he comes announced is to be received with formal manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him. in the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of deference. —"an occurrence at owl creek bridge," ambrose bierce what are the people in this passage doing?

Answer 1

The people in the passage are participating in a solemn military execution, remaining motionless and silent as a sign of respect, in accordance with strict military etiquette.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the passage from Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," the people on the bridge are participating in a military execution. Except for a group of four in the center of the bridge, the infantry company and sentinels are motionless and deeply silent, observing military etiquette and respect in the face of impending death, which is personified in the text. The captain is overseeing the event but remains silent and does not issue any orders or signals. The scene is one of solemnity and tension as the soldiers adhere to a strict code of military etiquette, demonstrating their deference by their stillness and silence.