Read the excerpt from part one of trifles. mrs. hale (abruptly moving toward her). mrs. peters? which best describes the effect of the word “abruptly” in the excerpt?
a) the use of the word abruptly heightens the conflict by revealing to the reader that mrs. hale is becoming increasingly anxious.
b) the use of the word abruptly characterizes mrs. hale as someone who is aggressive and assertive by nature.
c) the use of the word abruptly quickens the plot by making it appear as though the characters in the play are rushed.
d) the use of the word abruptly adds to the mysterious mood in the scene as the reader is left to wonder why mrs. hale is upset.

It is true that prior to 1914 the united states often had been disturbed by events in other continents. we had even engaged in two wars with european nations and in a number of undeclared wars in the west indies, in the mediterranean and in the pacific for the maintenance of american rights and for the principles of peaceful commerce. but in no case had a serious threat been raised against our national safety or our continued independence. what is the theme of this excerpt? a. the responsibility for americans to avoid involvement in war. b. america’s history of international involvement. c. a new kind of threat to american security. d. america’s history as a peaceful nation.