Final answer:
Maibon's tools in the third paragraph symbolize stability, offering a sense of reliability necessary for progress in his trade and personal contribution to societal development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tools owned by Maibon in the third paragraph of The Stone likely symbolize stability. This interpretation aligns with the excerpt provided, where the wall made from the living rock is described as expressing a sense of stability connected to the dynasty of Hatshepsut in ancient Egypt. This wall symbolizes the desire for solid foundations and continuity during times of change, much like Maibon's tools symbolizing the reliability and steadiness required for his trade and life.
The depiction of tools in other contexts, such as Gustave Courbet's painting The Stone Breakers, emphasizes the struggle and oppression of the poor. However, this particular context of Maibon's tools does not suggest oppression but rather a reliable means to achieve progress in his work, reflecting choice A) Progress, while acknowledging the overarching theme of stability.
Advancements in society, including technology and written language, are frequently considered indicatives of human progress. Hence, Maibon's tools, which are essential for his craftsmanship, can also be seen as symbolic of progress in his personal capacity as a builder and contributor to the stability and development of his society.