In "The Third Bank of the River," the mother's reaction to the father's decision to leave most likely indicates that she
feels shocked and devastated.
In the short story "The Third Bank of the River" by João Guimarães Rosa, the mother's reaction to the father's decision to leave is open to interpretation and can vary depending on individual analysis. However, based on the text, it can be inferred that the mother's reaction indicates a mix of shock, confusion, and sadness.
Step 1: The initial reaction of the mother can be seen in the following excerpt from the story: "My mother, who had always been healthy and obedient, went through the house from end to end running her hands over the walls and murmuring, 'That cannot be!'"
Step 2: This reaction indicates a strong disbelief and denial of the father's decision, as she is seen physically searching the house and expressing her disbelief in an almost disoriented manner.
Step 3: Following the initial shock, the mother's reaction suggests a sense of confusion and helplessness. The story describes her behavior as withdrawing from the world, going silent, and seemingly losing her ability to communicate effectively. This withdrawal can be seen in the following lines: "She grew thin and began to shrink, did not get anything done in the house, and lost her sense of touch," and "She stopped speaking. She held a finger to her lip to make certain not to let a sound escape."
Step 4: The mother's response can also be interpreted as a deep sense of sadness and emotional pain. The story portrays her as becoming a mere spectator in her own life, watching her family and their reactions, but remaining detached and silent. This emotional state can be seen in lines such as: "Her heart had folded up inside her. In her body, she carried nothing more."
Overall, the mother's reaction to the father's decision to leave in "The Third Bank of the River" indicates a mixture of shock, confusion, and sadness. However, the story does not explicitly delve into her exact thoughts and feelings, leaving room for different interpretations.
In order to analyze the mother's reaction to the father's decision in "The Third Bank of the River," we need to thoroughly understand the story.
To begin, "The Third Bank of the River" is a short story written by João Guimarães Rosa, a Brazilian author. It revolves around a first-person narrator who recalls a significant event from his childhood. In the story, his father abruptly decides to build a canoe and live on the river until he dies, without giving any clear explanation for his choice.
To understand the mother's reaction, we need to examine the story closely. We should analyze the mother's dialogue, actions, and emotions, as well as those of other characters. By doing so, we can gain insight into her perspective and address your question adequately.
To determine the mother's reaction, we should pay attention to the following aspects:
1. Dialogues: Look for the explicit statements made by the mother regarding the father's decision.
2. Non-verbal cues: Observe the mother's behavior, facial expressions, and body language to identify her emotional state.
3. Context: Consider the overall setting and circumstances surrounding the mother's reaction. This includes the family dynamics, cultural background, and any potential tensions that might exist.
By thoroughly exploring these aspects of the story, we can gain a deeper understanding of the mother's reaction to the father's decision in "The Third Bank of the River."