Question

which of these inferences about ralph is best supported by the scene when he imagines washing (chapter 7)? a. ralph is fussy and particular. b. ralph has grown accustomed to island life, but longs for the comforts of civilization. c. ralph is disgusted by his appearance and the appearance of the other boys. d. ralph is accustomed to being dirty, it is no different than a typical day of sport and play.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option based on the scene where Ralph imagines washing in Lord of the Flies (Chapter 7):

• Option A: Imagining washing doesn’t imply “fussy/particular” (too judgmental, not supported by context).
• Option B: Ralph has adapted to island life (surviving, leading) but his longing for washing (a civilized comfort) shows he misses civilization. This aligns with the novel’s themes of lost civilization.
• Option C: The scene focuses on his longing for comfort, not “disgust” at others’ appearances (no textual support for this).
• Option D: Imagining washing contradicts “accustomed to being dirty” (he wants to clean, so this is wrong).

Answer:

B. Ralph has grown accustomed to island life, but longs for the comforts of civilization.