Question

The passage describes Ivan Ilyich's relationship with Gerasim, a peasant. What can be inferred about the societal norms and attitudes during that time?

a. The peasant class in nineteenth-century Russia was full of honest and compassionate people.
b. Educated professionals gained influence in Russian society in the nineteenth century.
c. In the nineteenth century, middle-class Russians were rich and well-educated.
d. Peasants more readily accepted unpleasant facts of life, while the middle class tried to deny them.

Answer 1

In nineteenth-century Russia, societal norms and attitudes were characterized by a rigid social structure and resistance to change.

Step-by-step explanation:

From the provided information, it can be inferred that in nineteenth-century Russia, societal norms and attitudes were characterized by a rigid social structure and resistance to change.

The landowning nobles dominated society and opposed any potential threats to their privilege, while the majority of the population, including the peasants, endured poverty, oppression, and limited access to education.

Therefore, option d. Peasants more readily accepted unpleasant facts of life, while the middle class tried to deny them, best reflects the societal norms and attitudes of that time.