Question

Read the following vocabulary word in context from Act II as found on the page indicated. You may need to read some text before and after the vocabulary word. Then, choose the correct definition intended by the author. Use a dictionary if necessary.

compelled (p. 45, dialogue)
nincompoop (p. 47, dialogue)
obstinate (p. 47, dialogue)
nonplussed (p. 48, stage directions)
ire (p. 51, stage directions))
compunction (p. 52, stage directions)
disinter (p. 60, dialogue)
The play Miracle worker

Answer 1

• Compelled: In the context of the play, "compelled" means to force or drive someone to do something. For example, in Act II, Annie Sullivan feels compelled to teach Helen Keller despite the many challenges she faces.
• Nincompoop: A "nincompoop" is a silly or foolish person. In Act II, Annie Sullivan calls James a "nincompoop" when he tries to stop her from teaching Helen.
• Obstinate: "Obstinate" means stubborn or refusing to change one's opinion or behavior. In Act II, Helen is obstinate when she refuses to learn or communicate.
• Nonplussed: "Nonplussed" means surprised or confused, often to the point of being unsure how to react. In Act II, the stage directions describe Annie's reaction to Helen throwing a tantrum as "nonplussed."
• Ire: "Ire" means anger or a strong feeling of displeasure. In Act II, the stage directions describe Annie's "ire" when she discovers that Helen's family has been spoiling her.
• Compunction: "Compunction" means a feeling of guilt or regret for doing something wrong. In Act II, the stage directions describe Annie's "compunction" when she realizes that she has not been fair to Helen.
• Disinter: "Disinter" means to dig up something that has been buried, often a dead body. In Act II, Annie uses the word "disinter" metaphorically when she tells Helen's family that she wants to "disinter" Helen's mind and help her learn.

Answer 2

In Act II of the play "Miracle Worker," the author uses several vocabulary words. Let's go through each word and provide the correct definition intended by the author:

1. Compelled (p. 45, dialogue): Compelled means to be forced or obligated to do something. For example, if a character in the play feels compelled to speak up, it means they are compelled to express their thoughts or opinions. convinced; swayed

2. Nincompoop (p. 47, dialogue): Nincompoop is a humorous term used to describe a foolish or silly person. It is likely used in the play to add humor or to characterize someone as lacking intelligence. st U pid person

3. Obstinate (p. 47, dialogue): Obstinate refers to being stubborn or refusing to change one's opinion or course of action. In the play, a character may be described as obstinate if they are resistant to suggestions or unwilling to compromise. stubborn

4. Nonplussed (p. 48, stage directions): Nonplussed means to be puzzled or confused, often to the point of being unsure how to react. If a character in the play is described as nonplussed, it means they are taken aback or surprised by something unexpected. puzzled

5. Ire (p. 51, stage directions): Ire refers to intense anger or wrath. If a character's actions or dialogue demonstrate ire, it means they are displaying extreme anger or frustration. anger

6. Compunction (p. 52, stage directions): Compunction is a feeling of guilt or unease that follows doing something wrong or unethical. If a character in the play is described as having compunction, it means they are experiencing remorse or regret. feeling bad about having done something

7. Disinter (p. 60, dialogue): Disinter means to dig up or remove something from a grave or burial place. In the play, the word may be used metaphorically or literally, depending on the context. to bring out from being hidden; uncover

These definitions should help you understand the intended meaning of each vocabulary word as used by the author in Act II of "Miracle Worker."

(ICA 2023)