Final answer:
The texts provided explore the complex reactions of communities in Wyoming to religious figures and themes of religious influence, community dynamics, and individual struggle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The response of the people of Wyoming to the visit from the missionary preacher is not directly provided in the available excerpts. However, we can surmise certain attitudes from the related texts. In Mark Twain's "War Prayer," the reaction to the prophet is one of shock and puzzlement, as his true message, revealing the darker side of what their prayers for wartime victory mean, becomes clear. This is a controversial story because it criticizes the glorification of war and challenges the religious zeal and patriotism of Twain's contemporaries. Zane Grey's portrayal of interactions with the Mormon community in the excerpts reflects a complex relationship, with sentiments ranging from respect and gratitude to fear and conflict over differing beliefs and practices. Grey's portrayal suggests a view of Mormon elders that is critical of their authoritative control and the potential consequences it has on individuals like Jane Withersteen in the narrative. The texts explore themes of religious influence, social community dynamics, and the individual's struggle against oppressive societal norms.