Question

1. what idea interacted with mary’s actions to cause george soper to suspect her of spreading typhoid?

a. the cesspool for the home was solid.
b. people could carry typhoid without being sick.
c. the other customers of the clam seller did not get sick.
d. rich and privileged people were not supposed to get typhoid.
d. people did not believe soper about the idea of a “healthy carrier.”

Explanation:

To determine the idea that led George Soper to suspect Mary of spreading typhoid, we analyze the options:

• Option a: The cesspool's condition (solid) is not directly related to Mary spreading typhoid.
• Option b: The concept of a "healthy carrier" (someone carrying a pathogen without being sick) is key. Mary Mallon (Typhoid Mary) was a healthy carrier, and the idea that people could carry typhoid without symptoms would make Soper suspect her, as she appeared healthy but could spread the disease.
• Option c: Other customers not getting sick doesn't directly point to Mary as the spreader.
• Option d: Rich people's susceptibility is irrelevant to suspecting Mary.

Answer:

b. People could carry typhoid without being sick.