Final Answer:
Arthur slaps Gerda on page 8 because he is angry and frustrated with her for lying about her whereabouts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the story, Gerda lies to her brother, Arthur, about where she has been. This lie angers and upsets Arthur, causing him to react physically by slapping her. His anger stems from the fact that he cares deeply for his sister and feels betrayed by her dishonesty.
Paragraph 1: Gerda’s actions create a sense of mistrust and tension between her and Arthur, which ultimately leads to the confrontation. She keeps secrets and lies about her whereabouts, causing Arthur to worry about her safety and well-being.
Paragraph 2: Arthur’s frustration with Gerda’s dishonesty and his concern for her safety and well-being build up inside him until he can no longer contain his emotions. When he confronts her about her lies, his anger boils over, and he slaps her as a way to express his anger and disappointment.
Paragraph 3: Despite the physical act of violence, Arthur’s actions are a reflection of the emotional turmoil he experiences as a result of Gerda’s dishonesty. The slap serves as a wake-up call for both siblings, highlighting the importance of trust and open communication within their relationship.