Character and Setting in "To Build a Fire," Part 1 — Quiz
Question 5 • 191 CR ELA 9
Read the passage from Part 1 of “To Build a Fire.” It was a clear day, and yet there seemed an intangible pall over the face of things, a subtle gloom that made the day dark, and that was due to the absence of sun. This fact did not worry the man. How does this detail about the setting advance the plot?
Answer
A
It explains the cold temperatures that are reached without the warmth of the sun.
B
It shows the man’s lack of concern despite his situation.
C
It suggests that the man is unable to observe his surroundings.
D
It introduces the difficulty the man will face with the darkness.
Explanation
The passage describes a gloomy, sunless day, but says this “did not worry the man.” That contrast shows his lack of concern about the conditions around him and helps establish his overconfidence, which contributes to the plot. The detail does not suggest he cannot see his surroundings.
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