Final answer:
In literature, the mode of descent relates to inheritance and family lineage which can be pivotal to a story's plot, themes, and character development. Understanding descent provides insights into the societal structure and personal motives within the narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term mode of descent generally refers to the manner in which kinship and inheritance systems are passed down through generations within a society. It has crucial implications on how property and status are transferred, and thus affects societal structure and personal relationships. In the context of a story or literature, understanding the descent can be essential for a number of reasons, including unraveling a mystery plot or understanding the social context in which characters operate. Choices such as a character's descent can influence their motives and thus the plot or theme of the story. In this scenario, the correct answer is not given explicitly, but understanding descent would be essential for grasping the bigger picture, including the themes and the resolution of a narrative's conflict.
As for why this is important in literary analysis, the descent can be tied to the themes of a story, the development of its plot, and the growth of its characters. For instance, in a novel where the main conflict is related to inheritance or family legacies, the mode of descent can be a pivotal element. Revealing such details can contribute to the revelation that shapes the plot or the resolution where the conflict is settled. This further helps in developing an in-depth explanation of the themes, motives, or diction of the book, which are tied together by the overarching message of the narrative.