eread the last line of "The Most Dangerous Game."
He had never slept in a better bed, Rainsford decided.
What effect does that closing line create as the story ends? Explain using details from the story.
The closing line, "He had never slept in a better bed, Rainsford decided," creates a sense of relief and satisfaction for the main character, Rainsford, as the story comes to an end. Throughout the story, Rainsford goes through a terrifying and life-threatening experience while being hunted by General Zaroff on his secluded island. Rainsford is forced to face the same kind of fear and hunting tactics that he has been using as a renowned hunter.
The line signifies Rainsford's transition from being the hunted to becoming the hunter himself. It highlights the transformation and survival instincts that Rainsford develops during his harrowing ordeal. Rainsford's experience with Zaroff pushes him to question the ethics and morality of hunting, as well as to consider the true nature of humanity. In the end, he manages to outwit and kill Zaroff, proving his own skill and resourcefulness.
The closing line also implies a sense of satisfaction for Rainsford. Despite being pushed to his limits and facing the possibility of death, Rainsford emerges victorious. The mention of the bed symbolizes not only physical comfort and rest but also the metaphorical victory and peace of mind that Rainsford gains from the experience. It suggests that Rainsford, having conquered his own fears, can now find solace and contentment in his own accomplishments, knowing that he had executed the ultimate survival strategy.