Final answer:
The excerpt from "McTeague" describes a lively supper scene where guests are unfamiliar with champagne, portray varying social interactions, and experience moments of awkwardness amidst celebration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenes described in this excerpt from Frank Norris' novel "McTeague," depict a lively and awkward social gathering, specifically a celebratory supper. The guests, who are not accustomed to champagne and high society, fumble through the dinner, making mistakes and crude jokes, as illustrated when McTeague mistakenly calls champagne "the best beer."
The contrast between social classes is evident in the deferential treatment of Uncle Oelbermann, signifying wealth and respect, versus the relaxed mood among others. The facetious waiter adds humor, while Marcus Schouler's mocking and Old Grannis' discomfort provide tension and depth to the scene.
As the supper continues, the atmosphere grows more convivial, filled with raucous laughter and song, although undercut by moments of awkwardness and class tension, exemplifying the themes of wealth, class distinctions, and social mores within Norris' narrative.