Question

How has the surprise gift of the Swiss Army knife helped the boy emotionally when the emperor was divine?

A. It provided a sense of security and self-reliance.
B. It boosted his confidence and made him feel capable.
C. It offered a distraction from the harsh reality of the emperor's divine status.
D. It symbolized a connection to his father and brought him comfort.

Answer 1

The Swiss Army knife in 'When the Emperor was Divine' likely represents a connection to the boy's father, providing him with emotional comfort during times of uncertainty and displacement.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the boy in the novel 'When the Emperor was Divine' receives a Swiss Army knife as a surprise gift, it serves as an important emotional anchor for him. This gift likely symbolized a connection to his father, which would have brought him significant comfort during a time of separation and uncertainty. The prestige goods mentioned in the historical background signify not only wealth but emotional and political power, which can relate to how the Swiss Army knife would symbolize both practical utility and emotional value for the boy. In the setting of the book, where characters are displaced and dispossessed, having something that represents a link to one's past and loved ones would indeed be a source of comfort and emotional support.