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How does the author develop tension in paragraphs 37-47?
by contrasting the excitement of Gerasim with the despair of Polikarpych and his wife
How does the author use indirect characterization to reveal Gerasim’s personality?
By describing his dialogue and interactions with Yegor and Sharov.
Select two sentences that belong in an accurate summary of the passage.
Gerasim needs a job and asks the coachman Yegor for his assistance.
Gerasim turns down the job Yegor helps him obtain after listening to the conversation between Polikarpych and his wife.
What is ironic about Gerasim’s final decision?
He refuses a job despite struggling to find employment.
How does the conversation between Yegor and Sharov advance the plot?
It exposes the heartlessness of Yegor and Sharov despite their willingness to help Gerasim.
Which quotation from the passage supports the answer in Part A?
“He realized what misfortune he would be bringing the old people, and it made him sick at heart.” (paragraph 47)
How does the setting contribute to the conflict in the passage?
The rigid social structure limits opportunities for workers like Gerasim.
How do Gerasim’s actions at the end of the passage help develop the theme?
By putting the needs of others before his own, Gerasim shows that acting with compassion toward others is its own personal reward.
How does Gerasim’s decision contrast with Yegor’s actions?
Gerasim chooses morality over personal gain, while Yegor prioritizes personal benefit.
What motivates Yegor to help Gerasim find a job?
He sees Gerasim as an easy replacement for Polikarpych.
What do paragraphs 42-44 suggest about Russian society in the early 1900s?
Climbing out of poverty was nearly impossible.
How does the passage explore the theme of social responsibility?
It highlights the moral dilemma of taking an opportunity at the expense of someone else.
Which quotation from the passage supports the answer in Part A?
“He felt happy and lighthearted.” (paragraph 51)
What is the significance of Gerasim feeling "happy and lighthearted" at the end of the passage?
It suggests that he finds inner peace in making a selfless decision.
How does Yegor’s characterization affect the plot?
His actions set the main conflict into motion.
How does paragraph 47 develop Gerasim’s internal conflict?
It shows his hesitation before making a final decision.
Which statement best explains how the passage’s structure contributes to its meaning?
It builds tension by presenting Gerasim’s struggles before revealing his final choice.
What does Polikarpych’s reaction to losing his job reveal about his character?
He is manipulative and guilt-trips Gerasim into rejecting the job.
What does Yegor’s reaction to Gerasim’s refusal reveal about his personality?
He is more concerned with his own reputation than with Gerasim’s moral dilemma.
What theme is reinforced by Yegor’s attitude toward Polikarpych?
Older workers are undervalued and easily replaced.
Why does the author include the description of Gerasim’s efforts to find work in paragraphs 1-2?
to reinforce the generosity of his decision to turn down the only job he is offered
What is the effect of the phrase "stabbed him like a dagger" in paragraph 47?
It emphasizes the emotional pain Gerasim feels upon realizing the impact of his hiring.
How does the passage reflect the economic struggles of workers in early 20th-century Russia?
It shows how difficult it was to find and keep employment, especially for aging workers.
Why does the author include dialogue between Polikarpych and his wife?
To highlight the emotional weight of Gerasim’s decision.
What do Polikarpych’s words in paragraphs 42-46 suggest about his view of employers?
He believes that employers are selfish and only care about their own interests.