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“When my boss talks to me in a deadly calm voice with a low pitch, slow tempo, and steady rhythm, I know she’s mad about something!” In this example, the employee identifies the supervisor’s feeling through an understanding of

Nonverbal communication occurs in face-to-face situations, but does not apply to written or electronic communication.

Worth 5 points: From “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin, what does the revelation Louise Mallard has when locked in her bedroom say about Kate Chopin’s opinions regarding the institution of marriage? Further, how does Chopin feel about women and their role in society? How do Chopin’s ideas differ from 19th-century tradition? Your answer should be at least 4-6 sentences in length.

Flannery O’Connor’s faith/religion acts as the foundation of her short stories. Taking her faith/religion into account, explain the purpose behind her writing. What is she trying to accomplish with her stories?

In “A Good Man Is Hard to Find”, which of the following best describes the grandmother’s final act before being shot to death by the Misfit?

What disease did Flannery O’Connor suffer and die from?

Worth 5 points: From “The Story of an Hour,” why do the doctors say Louise Mallard died from “the joy that kills?” How are they mistaken? What was the actual cause of death?

The fire Armand Aubigny builds at the end of “Desiree’s Baby” is important. Fires can be used to consume or destroy, and by fire Armand is attempting to destroy every object from the chapter of his life that includes Desiree and his son. Beyond destruction, fire has another purpose. What is this other purpose, and how does it create the story’s ironic ending?

After reading three of Flannery O’Connor’s short stories, how would you describe her main characters? What characteristics and opinions do they share? 

What is the significance of the pillar, or gate-post, in “Desiree’s Baby” by Kate Chopin? Is it a symbol? If so, what does it symbolize?