Use the story “The Open Window” to answer the question. Why is it important that Vera is familiar with the setting and Nuttel is not?
It is important that Vera is familiar with the setting and Nuttel is not because it allows her to manipulate Nuttel and create a sense of suspense and mystery. The story is set in a rural area called "The Sappletons' place," and Vera is described as being familiar and at home in this setting. As a result, she knows the landscape well and is able to use it to deceive Nuttel.
Vera takes advantage of Nuttel's ignorance by telling him a fabricated story about the tragedy that occurred in the Sappleton family. She claims that Mr. Sappleton and his two younger brothers went out on a hunting trip three years ago and never returned. Nuttel, being unfamiliar with the area, believes this story and becomes increasingly nervous as he waits for the supposed ghosts of Mr. Sappleton and his brothers to appear.
Furthermore, Vera uses her knowledge of the setting to enhance the believability of her story. When Nuttel comments on the open window, Vera explains that Mrs. Sappleton keeps it open in the hopes that her husband and his brothers will one day return. This detail adds another layer of mystery and uneasiness to the narrative.
In contrast, Nuttel's unfamiliarity with the setting places him in a vulnerable position. He is unaware of the truth and easily falls victim to Vera's manipulation. Had Nuttel been familiar with the setting, he might have recognized the inconsistencies in Vera's story or questioned the plausibility of the ghosts appearing through the open window.
By highlighting the importance of familiarity with the setting, the story emphasizes how knowledge and understanding can be used to deceive and manipulate others effectively. Vera's familiarity with the setting and Nuttel's lack thereof becomes a crucial element in the creation of suspense and the advancement of the plot.