Question

Lines 527–538: Explain how each of the adults departs from the normal, hopeful household routines. What does the adults' behavior suggest about the characters' state of mind?

A. They depart by neglecting their duties, suggesting a state of despair.
B. They depart by becoming more diligent, suggesting a state of optimism.
C. They depart by engaging in new activities, suggesting a state of boredom.
D. They depart by involving the children in chores, suggesting a state of unity.

Answer 1

A. They depart by neglecting their duties, suggesting a state of despair. The behavior of the adults suggests a state of despair as they neglect their duties and exhibit signs of isolation and hopelessness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The behavior of the adults in lines 527–538 suggests a state of despair. They depart from the normal, hopeful household routines by neglecting their duties. Examples of this include an older man retiring from his job, stopping recreational activities like golfing, and canceling his newspaper subscription. After the death of his wife, he becomes isolated, loses touch with his children, and stops seeing old friends. These actions demonstrate a lack of motivation and a sense of hopelessness.