A plot development from the play's historical context might depict the friends' differing views on women's suffrage, aligned with the early 20th-century social and political changes, reflecting realism in drama by presenting ordinary characters wrestling with significant ethical decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Considering the historical context of the early 20th century, an example of a plot development that might result from the setting of a play about two women attending college far from home in the 1910s could be that the friends are divided on whether to support women's right to vote. This period was marked by significant social and political changes, such as the rise of the women's suffrage movement, which is reflected in the increasing discussions and debates about women's rights. Given that educational institutions were also conservative and typically steered women towards certain majors, it would not be surprising for the play to explore the varying views on suffrage among educated women.
As playwrights like Henrik Ibsen introduced realism to the stage, with ordinary characters facing significant ethical choices, it's plausible that the play's characters would encounter similar issues. The plot may also reflect how, despite advancements, women's roles and opportunities in society were still heavily debated and restricted during this era. Such a plot point would align with the realistic mode of writing, where the narrative focuses on ordinary people experiencing real-life struggles, which often include political and social issues of the time.