Question

which excerpt from rip van winkle best shows that washington irving finds humor in the van winkles relationship?

• \...was one of those happy mortals, of foolish, well-oiled dispositions, who take the world easy, eat white bread or brown, whichever can be got with least thought or trouble, and would rather starve on a penny than work for a pound.\
• \wolf would wag his tail, look wistfully in his master’s face, and if dogs can feel pity, i verily believe he reciprocated the sentiment with all his heart.\
• \this, however, always provoked a fresh volley from his wife, so that he was fain to draw off his forces, and take to the outside of the house—the only side which, in truth, belongs to a henpecked husband.\
• \this desolateness overcame all his connubial fears—he called loudly for his wife and children—the lonely chambers rung for a moment with his voice, and then all again was silence.\

Explanation:

To determine the excerpt showing humor in the Van Winkles’ relationship, we analyze each option:

• First option: Describes Rip’s easy - going nature, not the relationship with his wife.
• Second option: Focuses on Rip and his dog Wolf, not the marital relationship.
• Third option: Uses phrases like “a fresh volley from his wife” and “henpecked husband” to humorously depict the dynamic between Rip and his wife (her scolding and his retreat), showing the humorous side of their relationship.
• Fourth option: Shows Rip’s fear and loneliness, not humor in the relationship.

Answer:

C. "This, however, always provoked a fresh volley from his wife, so that he was fain to draw off his forces, and take to the outside of the house—the only side which, in truth, belongs to a henpecked husband."