Final Answer:
a) The engraving features a lamb and a pastoral scene, reinforcing the poem's pastoral and innocent theme.
b) The engraving includes a child with a gentle expression, emphasizing the poem's focus on innocence and the child's perspective.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "The Lamb," William Blake's choice to pair the poem with an engraving of a lamb and a pastoral scene aligns with the thematic elements of innocence and simplicity conveyed in the poem. The depiction of a lamb and a pastoral setting in the engraving reinforces the pastoral and innocent theme of the poem. It visually connects with the poem's exploration of the Lamb as a symbol of purity and the pastoral imagery that conveys a sense of idyllic simplicity.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a child with a gentle expression in the engraving enhances the emphasis on innocence and highlights the child's perspective within the poem. The visual representation of a child complements the speaker's innocence as portrayed in the poem, and the gentle expression reinforces the tender and benign nature associated with the Lamb. This pairing of visual and literary elements serves to deepen the thematic resonance and provide a holistic sensory experience for the reader.
Contrarily, options c and d suggest contrasting elements, such as a stormy sky or a tiger, which do not align with the poem's tone and message of innocence. These would create a dissonance between the visual and literary components, detracting from the intended harmony between Blake's words and engravings. The careful selection of imagery in the engraving enhances the reader's understanding and emotional connection with the poem, ensuring a cohesive and immersive experience.