Question

In discussing Henry's feelings about the upcoming battle, what does Stephen Crane mean by in this crisis, the laws of his life were useless?

a) Henry's life lacked laws.

b) Laws played a crucial role in Henry's life.

c) Henry's life was unpredictable during the crisis.

d) Henry disregarded societal laws during the crisis.

Answer 1

Stephen Crane's statement refers to Henry realizing that the customary principles guiding his life are ineffective when facing the chaos of battle, which aligns with option c) Henry's life was unpredictable during the crisis.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Stephen Crane writes 'in this crisis, the laws of his life were useless,' he means that the rules and principles by which Henry has lived his life up to this point are of no help in the face of such a profound and challenging experience as a battle. The turmoil of battle forces Henry to face realities for which his previous life experiences and societal norms provided no guidance. This corresponds to option c) Henry's life was unpredictable during the crisis, suggesting that the established guidelines he followed in daily life could not prepare him for the extraordinary circumstances of war.