Which line is most significant in developing the epiphany in this passage?
A.
“He was conscious of, but could not apprehend, their wayward and flickering existence;”
B.
“He watched her while she slept as though he and she had never lived together as man and wife.”
C.
“His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead.”***
D.
“He would cast about in his mind for some words that might console her, and would find only lame and useless ones.”
E.
“He did not like to say even to himself that her face was no longer beautiful but he knew that it was no longer the face for which Michael Furey had braved death.”
In order to determine which line is most significant in developing the epiphany in this passage, we need to first understand what an epiphany is and then analyze each option.
An epiphany is a moment of sudden realization or understanding that often brings about a significant change in a character's perspective or attitude. It is a key turning point in a story.
Let's analyze each option:
A. "He was conscious of, but could not apprehend, their wayward and flickering existence;"
This line suggests that the protagonist is aware of something but cannot fully understand or grasp it. While it may contribute to the overall atmosphere of the passage, it does not necessarily lead to an epiphany.
B. "He watched her while she slept as though he and she had never lived together as man and wife."
This line indicates a sense of distance or detachment between the protagonist and his wife. It might contribute to the development of the passage, but it does not necessarily lead to an epiphany.
C. "His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead."
This line presents a moment of intense emotion and realization. The imagery of the snow falling and its connection to the "last end" suggests a deeper understanding and acceptance of mortality. This line is the most significant in developing the epiphany in this passage.
D. "He would cast about in his mind for some words that might console her, and would find only lame and useless ones."
This line highlights the protagonist's struggle to find meaningful words to comfort his wife. While it may contribute to the overall theme of inadequacy, it does not necessarily lead to an epiphany.
E. "He did not like to say even to himself that her face was no longer beautiful but he knew that it was no longer the face for which Michael Furey had braved death."
This line reveals a comparison between the protagonist's wife and someone from her past. It suggests a shift in the protagonist's perception of his wife's beauty. While it may contribute to the development of the passage, it does not necessarily lead to an epiphany.
In conclusion, the line that is most significant in developing the epiphany in this passage is line C: "His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead."