Final answer:
Paul D describes Sethe as strong and independent, indicative of her resilience and ability to overcome hardships. This character trait is essential to understanding her actions throughout the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paul D describes Sethe when he first knew her as option a) strong and independent, suggesting her resilience in the face of hardship. This description of Sethe paints a picture of a woman who possesses an unwavering strength and a self-sufficient character, which allowed her to manage and overcome the numerous challenges that she faced, particularly in the context of her life as a former slave. Her resilient nature is key to understanding her character and the choices she makes throughout the narrative.