Final answer:
The mother's reaction to the buffalo in the museum is best explained as a strong personal relation due to similar circumstances of adversity and conflict, reflecting her own experiences with racial antagonism. The correct option is A. She relates strongly to the buffalo because of their similar circumstances.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the provided text, it seems that the best answer to the question of why the mother reacted as she did to the buffalo in the museum would be option A: She relates strongly to the buffalo because of their similar circumstances. In the passage, the mother reflects on her personal experiences, the sense of racial conflict, and a search for her identity, drawing a parallel with the past and the suffering of the buffalo at the hands of hunters. The reflection on the buffalo in the museum likely prompts an empathetic response due to the perceived shared experience of subjugation and adversity.
The emotional complexity of the mother's reaction intertwines the concept of racial antagonism, the contemplation on heritage, and feelings of liberation from figurative shackles. This aligns with her sensing a connection to the buffalo, who have also been aggressively pursued and misunderstood.