Question 4 • CMS 2026-2027 English III CREDIT RECOVERY
Read the excerpt from "The Yellow Wallpaper." I don’t like our room a bit. I wanted one downstairs that opened on the piazza and had roses all over the window, and such pretty old-fashioned chintz hangings! but John would not hear of it. He said there was only one window and not room for two beds, and no near room for him if he took another. He is very careful and loving, and hardly lets me stir without special direction. Which statement describes a gothic element in this excerpt that reflects a social attitude of Gilman’s time?
Answer
A
The narrator’s description of the rooms that open to the piazza contributes to the sense of mystery and suspense.
B
John makes decisions on his wife’s behalf, which illustrates that she is not in control of her own fate.
C
John’s words to his wife indicate that he is a strange and mysterious character who may have other motives.
D
The narrator’s description of the nearly windowless room contributes to the sense of longing and fear.
Explanation
John rejects the room the narrator wants and controls her movements by giving her “special direction.” His decisions show that she has little control over her own life, creating a Gothic sense of confinement and helplessness. This reflects the period’s social attitude that husbands could exert authority over their wives.
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