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Which of the following is an important internal conflict in the story "A Rose for Emily"?

A. The mayor struggles with Emily about what to do about the taxes.
B. The townspeople struggle about what to do about the smell.
C. Emily struggles with herself about what to do about the taxes.
D. Emily struggles with herself about what to do about Homer Barron.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The important internal conflict in 'A Rose for Emily' is Emily's struggle with herself over her relationship with Homer Barron, representing the human heart's conflict with itself, which is essential to Faulkner's theme of good writing. The correct answer is option D.

Step-by-step explanation:

An important internal conflict in William Faulkner's A Rose for Emily is D. Emily struggles with herself about what to do about Homer Barron. This conflict demonstrates the problems of the human heart in conflict with itself, a theme that Faulkner believed was essential for good writing.

Emily's internal struggle with her feelings for Homer, her societal position, and ultimately her decisions regarding him exemplify this inner turmoil. Her inability to cope with loss and change, as well as her attempt to preserve her love for Homer in a twisted manner, underscores the profound conflict Emily experiences.

The single grey hair found at the end of the story marks the disturbing conclusion of Emily's struggle with this personal conflict, as it signifies her intimate contact with the deceased Homer and suggests a macabre culmination of her inability to let go.

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