Final answer:
The adult Scout begins her narrative with Jem's broken arm and family history in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' primarily to provide background information on the characters, which helps readers understand the context and become invested in the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asks about the significance of starting the narrative in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' with an event such as Jem's broken arm and a brief family history. As the adult Scout narrates these events, they serve multiple purposes:
- Setting: They establish the where and when of the story, providing the reader with the context and background needed to understand the unfolding events.
- Characters: They offer background information on the characters, which is crucial for understanding their motivations and actions throughout the novel.
- Conflict: While it might not introduce the main conflict of the story directly, this opening acts as a hook to engage the reader, hinting that there will be events, such as the broken arm, that shape the characters and the narrative.
- Theme: Thematically, it sets the stage for the exploration of deeper issues within the novel, although the central theme is developed gradually as the story progresses.
Therefore, the best answer to the student's question is C) To provide background information on the characters. This allows readers to become acquainted with the people they will be following throughout the story, understanding their histories, personalities, and the setting in which they live.