Question

1. how does the setting of the barbershop contribute to the storys tension?

a. it provides a public space for confrontation
b. it creates an intimate space for potential violence
c. it represents the towns poverty
d. it symbolizes the revolutions progress

1. the barbers decision at the end of the story is influenced most by:

a. his fear of consequences
b. his professional pride
c. his moral principles
d. his political beliefs

1. how does the author create mystery in the story?

a. through supernatural elements
b. through the uncertain intentions of both characters
c. through unexplained past events
d. through missing information about the revolution

1. what literary device is most prominent in developing the storys theme?

a. symbolism through the razor and lather
b. metaphors about cleanliness
c. personification of death
d. allegory about good versus evil

Explanation:

1. The barbershop is a small, enclosed space. Intimate spaces can heighten the sense of potential violence as characters are close - together and there is a lack of escape routes.
2. The barber's moral principles (such as not being a murderer) likely influence his decision at the end. He has a code of ethics that prevents him from taking a life, even if the person is his enemy.
3. The uncertain intentions of both characters (the barber and his customer) create mystery. The reader is constantly wondering what each character will do next.
4. The razor and lather are used symbolically. The razor represents the potential for violence (as a weapon) and the lather can symbolize the facade of normalcy (a barber's typical tool) amidst the tension.

Answer:

1. b. It creates an intimate space for potential violence
2. c. His moral principles
3. b. Through the uncertain intentions of both characters
4. a. Symbolism through the razor and lather