Final Answer:
"Because the point of view is "outside" the action, it allows the reader to know things the characters do not" best describes the effect the narrative point of view has on the passage. OPTION B
Step-by-step explanation:
In "After Twenty Years" by O. Henry, the narrative point of view plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's experience. Option B accurately describes the effect of the narrative point of view on the passage. The story is narrated from an omniscient or third-person perspective, situated outside the direct experiences of the characters. This narrative choice allows the reader access to information that the characters are unaware of, creating dramatic irony.
The narrative perspective being "outside" the action means that the reader gains insights, perspectives, and knowledge that the characters lack. This knowledge asymmetry generates tension and anticipation, especially as the story unfolds. The ending becomes surprising as the reader, armed with additional information, realizes the true nature of the characters' actions and intentions.
This narrative technique also enables the writer to develop distinct characterizations for each character, as mentioned in option D. By presenting the thoughts, motivations, and actions of the characters, the writer can create a rich and multifaceted portrayal of each individual, contributing to the overall depth and complexity of the narrative. Therefore, while option D is a valid point, option B more directly addresses the impact of the narrative point of view on the reader's experience in the specific context of the passage.OPTION B