Answer :
Final answer:
In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Masque of the Red Death," the excerpts selected highlight the wealthy's emotional detachment from the suffering caused by the plague. The prince and his courtiers exhibit insensitivity through their neglect of those afflicted and their choice to indulge in pleasures while others suffer. This reflects a broader critique of the powerful's disregard for the plight of the less fortunate during a calamity.
Explanation:
Selecting the Texts
In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Masque of the Red Death," there are several parts of the excerpt that emphasize the insensitivity of the powerful and wealthy towards the suffering caused by the plague. The following three passages illustrate this idea:
- The scarlet stains upon the body and especially upon the face of the victim, were the pest ban which shut him out from the aid and from the sympathy of his fellow-men. This sentence highlights how the wealthy and powerful are emotionally disconnected from those who are suffering from the disease.
- In the meantime it was folly to grieve, or to think. This statement reflects the mindset of Prince Prospero and his courtiers, showing their complete disregard for the gravity of the situation outside their opulent sanctuary.
- When his dominions were half depopulated, he summoned to his presence a thousand hale and light-hearted friends from among the knights and dames of his court. This illustrates how Prince Prospero chooses to ignore the tragedy befalling his land and instead, indulges in pleasure and entertainment, demonstrating his insensitivity towards the plight of the population.
These excerpts collectively portray a powerful commentary on how those in positions of wealth and authority often detach themselves from the suffering of others, particularly in times of crisis.
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