Question

Which passage from Chapter 4 of Botchan best shows that Botchan is overwhelmed by his students?

A) Now the situation having developed to this pretty mess, I would not give it up until I had dragged them out from hiding and forced them to apologize.
B) The fools at both ends were bent on making a goose of me. I realized this, but then I was at a loss what to do. I frankly confess that I have not quite as much tact as dashing spirit.
C) I myself did some mischief while in the middle school, but when the culprit was sought after, I was never so cowardly, not even once, to back out.
D) They are just to ask for themselves what crimes they have done. It should be proper that they repent their folly after going to bed and to come and beg me pardon the next morning.

Answer 1

The passage that best shows that Botchan is overwhelmed by his students is option B) 'The fools at both ends were bent on making a goose of me. I realized this, but then I was at a loss what to do. I frankly confess that I have not quite as much tact as dashing spirit.' Botchan admits that he is overwhelmed by his students' behavior and does not know how to handle the situation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage that best shows that Botchan is overwhelmed by his students is option B) 'The fools at both ends were bent on making a goose of me. I realized this, but then I was at a loss what to do. I frankly confess that I have not quite as much tact as dashing spirit.'

Botchan admits that he is overwhelmed by his students' behavior and does not know how to handle the situation. He is aware that they are trying to make fun of him, but he lacks the tact and skill to effectively deal with it. This passage highlights Botchan's feeling of helplessness and being overwhelmed.