Final answer:
The fable develops the theme of cooperation and interdependence by illustrating the negative consequences when body parts go on strike, emphasizing the importance of each part to the functioning of the whole. Similar to the way conflict emphasizes the theme in Mark Twain's writing, the fable uses a breakdown in cooperation to convey the importance of working together.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theme of cooperation and interdependence in a fable is often developed by showcasing how the characters must work together to overcome challenges. In the options provided, the third one, 'By illustrating the negative consequences of the body parts going on strike,' is the most aligned with this theme. This scenario demonstrates that the body parts, even the ones that seem less significant, are crucial to the functioning of the whole organism, paralleling the importance of all members within any cooperative group.
The conflict within a story, such as in the Mark Twain excerpt, underscores the theme by creating a situation where the protagonist must rely on knowledge and training rather than succumbing to self-doubt. Similarly, a fable that shows body parts refusing to work in concert leads to a breakdown of the whole, reinforcing the idea that every part has a role and that success is achieved through mutual support and collaboration.
Furthermore, the presence of multiple themes and their interaction can enrich a story’s message. The question 'Which animal spoke the wisest words?' implies that the theme may also revolve around wisdom and communication. Hence, a story like this not only promotes interdependence but may also offer insights into other pertinent themes that require analysis and interpretation.