Read the excerpt from section 3 of "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge."
"Overhead, as he looked up through this rift in the wood, shone great garden stars looking unfamiliar and grouped in strange constellations. He was sure they were arranged in some order which had a secret and malign significance."
How does the excerpt contribute to the theme of fate?
A. It suggests that Farquhar will always be hunted by his captors.
B. It suggests that Farquhar is wrestling with forces larger than himself.
C. It suggests that Farquhar's problems are insignificant in the context of the world.
D. It suggests that Farquhar will always be haunted by his decisions.
Answer (1)
The excerpt illustrates how Peyton Farquhar grapples with forces beyond his control, emphasizing the theme of fate. Bierce uses imagery of unfamiliar stars to symbolize the overwhelming cosmic influences on Farquhar's life. Ultimately, it suggests that he is caught in a greater battle against fate that he cannot escape. ;
