Question

In the novel, the beginning is in media res, which not only makes for an entertaining beginning, but also represents an omen that immediately tells us that Santiago is going to ________?

1) live
2) succeed
3) escape
4) die

Answer 1

A novel beginning 'in media res' indicates that the story starts in the middle of the action, which in the provided text suggests that Santiago is going to escape.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the novel, starting in media res not only makes for an engaging beginning, but it also serves as a narrative device to foreshadow the protagonist's journey. Given that in media res means 'in the middle of things,' it suggests that we are thrown into a crucial moment of the story's timeline without prior context. From the text provided, the sense of urgency and determination in the character's actions, especially with phrases like 'frantic anguish to escape' and 'panting for life,' indicate that the character yearns for liberation and change. Therefore, the omen immediately tells us that Santiago is going to escape.