Question

student directions: reread this excerpt from paragraph 5 of the story. then, answer the question. this question has two parts. first, answer part a. then, answer part b. from “the refusal” by franz kafka on this occasion, too, the man chosen to speak could not begin, he was already standing opposite the colonel when his courage failed him and, muttering a few excuses, he pushed his way back into the crowd. no other suitable person willing to speak could be found, albeit several unsuitable ones offered themselves; a great commotion ensued and messengers went in search of various citizens who were well - known speakers. during all this time the colonel stood there motionless, only his chest moving visibly up and down to his breathing. not that he breathed with difficulty, it was just that he breathed so conspicuously, much as frogs breathe—except that with them it is normal, while here it was exceptional. i squeezed myself through the grownups and watched him through a gap between two soldiers, until one of them kicked me away with his knee. meanwhile the man originally chosen to speak had regained his composure and, firmly held up by two fellow citizens, was part a based on context clues in the passage, what is most likely the denotative meaning of the word composure? a ability to persuade b desire to run away or flee c state of being calm and in control d feeling of loss of control part b what evidence from the text supports the answer to part a? a “...he was already standing opposite the colonel when his courage failed him and, muttering a few excuses, he pushed his way back into the crowd.” b “it was touching to see him smile throughout this solemn speech - making.” c “not that he breathed with difficulty. it was just that he breathed so conspicuously, much as frogs breathe...” d “then he bowed low, as did everyone else except the colonel, the soldiers and a number of officials in the background.

Explanation:

For Part A, the denotative meaning of "composure" is the ability to remain calm and in control. In the passage, the man shows composure by standing firm and not being easily flustered. For Part B, option A shows his composure as he stands opposite the colonel and pushes his way back into the crowd while muttering excuses, indicating he is trying to maintain his calm - like demeanor.

Answer:

Part A: A. ability to remain calm and in control
Part B: A. "he was already standing opposite the colonel when his courage failed him and, muttering a few excuses, he pushed his way back into the crowd."