Final answer:
The second tablecloth is used for aesthetic enhancement, and protection, and to signify a formal or celebratory occasion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of a second tablecloth being placed over the first tablecloth during the preparation for supper is multifaceted and includes adding to the aesthetic appeal, providing an extra layer of protection for the table, and enhancing the overall dining experience. In historical contexts and in certain cultures, this practice can also signify affluence or celebration. When set for a formal event, the use of multiple tablecloths can contribute to a more elegant setting, while also helping to muffle sound and prevent spills from reaching the primary table surface.