The following text is adapted from a novel about a 19th-century craftsman. Elias is a journeyman carpenter. He agreed to an apprenticeship for six months; at the end of that term, he was to receive a complete set of master craftsmanship tools. […] The master carpenter reneged on the agreement regarding the tools, and with no guild to enforce the promise, Elias—who, though usually fiery-tempered and prone to argue when provoked, seems to have displayed, in this specific instance, a bizarre calm and resignation—was forced to pack his bag and seek employment in a neighboring town rather than opening his own shop.
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole?
It suggests that Elias is generally a lazy worker, which explains why he lost the tools.
It explains why Elias decided to sue the master carpenter.
It contrasts Elias’s typical personality with his reaction to this specific misfortune.
It implies that Elias never actually wanted the tools in the first place.
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The text notes that Elias is "usually fiery-tempered" but in this specific case showed "bizarre calm." The underlined portion highlights this contrast between his usual nature and his behavior in this moment.
Choice A is incorrect. The text describes him as "fiery," not lazy. Choice B is incorrect. He couldn't sue because there was "no law/guild," so this is factually wrong based on the text. Choice D is incorrect. He worked for six months to get them, implying he did want them.