Final answer:
The chef altering his appearance and the presence of arbitrary arrests by soldiers in the story signify a culture of mimicry and oppression, influencing characters to conceal their identities or live in fear.
Step-by-step explanation:
The underlying culture in a story can be inferred from the actions and affiliations of its characters, as well as the social norms and power structures they interact with. The chef's attempt at mirroring another person's appearance potentially illustrates a cultural emphasis on mimicry or concealment within the story, suggesting a society in which identity is fluid and representation is crucial. Similarly, the soldiers' random arrests indicate a culture of fear and oppression, where authority can act arbitrarily, shaping the characters into living in a state of perpetual anxiety and suspicion.
From the excerpts provided, it is clear that there is cultural tension and fear of oppression amongst immigrant groups and those perceived as radicals in the 1920s, which informs the characters' behavior and decisions. This is evidenced through the examples of Sacco and Vanzetti who became symbols of injustice within an intolerant justice system. On the other hand, the depiction of the Janissaries turning their soup bowls upside down in protest demonstrates how cultural practices can be utilized to convey powerful political messages.
Overall, these aspects of culture within the narrative can heavily influence characters by necessitating certain behaviors, as a means of survival or resistance. How characters navigate this cultural terrain by adopting 'masks' or concealing their true identities can provide further insight into the character's nature and the social dynamics at play.