Final answer:
Annie believes that pity is the worst treatment for Helen because it fails to recognize her potential and humanity, and instead can strip away her agency and dignity.
Step-by-step explanation:
From the passages provided, it is apparent that pity is viewed negatively because it tends to dehumanize the individual who is its object. Annie likely thinks that pity is the worst treatment for Helen because it fails to acknowledge her potential and humanity. Pity often strips away the agency and dignity of the person being pitied; it creates a power imbalance, treating the pitied not as equals, but as less capable, or as objects of charity and condescension.
The narrative references show characters who experience pity as something painful or diminishing rather than helpful or healing. The people who are the objects of pity, including Helen, are portrayed as wanting to be seen as equal, capable humans rather than mere recipients of others' sympathy. In this context, pity is seen as a barrier to recognizing the strength and full humanity of individuals facing challenges.