The Unselfish Oscar: An Analysis of the Stage Directions

HORACE. Well, Oscar, you’ve grown very unselfish. What’s happened to you? (LEO enters from dining room.) BEN (quickly, before OSCAR can answer) Oscar doesn’t mind. Not worth fighting about now, eh, Oscar? OSCAR. (angrily) I’ll get mine in the end. You can be sure of that. I’ve got my son’s future to think about.

What do the stage directions reveal about Ben?

A) They illustrate Ben’s feelings of annoyance toward his brother.

B) They reveal Ben’s belief that he is the only one who understands financial situations.

C) They imply Ben’s desire to avoid uncomfortable confrontations.

D) They demonstrate Ben’s care and concern for his brother’s well-being.

Answer:

C) They imply Ben’s desire to avoid uncomfortable confrontations.

Explanation:

In these lines, we learn that Ben wants to avoid uncomfortable situations. When Horace talks to Oscar, he does so in a mocking way that is meant to annoy him. However, before Oscar can reply, Ben participates, and he tries to defuse the situation. It seems like he wants to avoid a confrontation between Oscar and Horace. Therefore, we can conclude that Ben likes to avoid uncomfortable situations.

Answer:

C

Explanation:

How does Oscar's reaction reflect his concern for his son?

Oscar's anger and determination to "get mine in the end" shows his commitment to securing his son's future. He prioritizes his son's well-being above personal conflicts and is prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure his son's success.