"Heroes Every Child Should Know" is a compilation authored by Hamilton Wright Mabie, an American writer who was born in New York in 1845 and passed away in 1916. Published in 1908, this work collects tales of heroic figures from historical times, myths, and folk traditions that Mabie considered important for children to learn as models of virtuous behavior and conduct. In the excerpt, Mabie suggests that heroes have consistently been cherished across various eras and cultures because they symbolize the pinnacle of human qualities such as strength, goodness, and admirable traits. Despite the diversity in kinds of heroes throughout history, the reverence for them remains a common thread among people.
Answer:
The excerpt that most clearly illustrates the allegorical aspect is: Option D: With a shuddering impulse, revealing her as still a woman, the widow clasped her frail hands before her face, wishing that the coffin-lid was closed over it, as it could no longer be beautiful.
Explanation:
An allegorical story employs characters and settings as symbols to convey a deeper significance rather than the straightforward meaning of the narrative. It serves to elucidate moral values and universal truths.
"Dr. Heidegger's Experiment" by Nathaniel Hawthorne beautifully exemplifies this concept of allegory.
Option D conveys allegory by illustrating that a body has lost its youth and an aging body cannot revert back to a youthful state. Time moves on, and the rejuvenation experienced by the four individuals was fleeting.