What effect does Stephen Crane achieve by repeating the phrase "the sacred cheese" in the short story "The Open Boat"?

A. He compares the men to small children who are innocent and lack cunning.
B. He compares the men to mice who are intelligent and survive by adapting to circumstances.
C. He compares the men to mice who must struggle to survive but have their efforts go in vain.
D. He compares the men to small children who are being rightly punished for disobeying orders.

In 'The Open Boat' by Stephen Crane, the phrase 'the sacred cheese' symbolizes life's fragility and the men's existential reflections while facing adversity at sea.

Explanation:

In the short story 'The Open Boat' by Stephen Crane, the repetition of the phrase 'the sacred cheese' creates a metaphorical comparison between the men in the boat and the idea of life's preciousness and fragility. The phrase symbolizes the men's hopes, struggles, and the unforeseen challenges they face while trying to survive at sea.

One interpretation of the repetition of 'the sacred cheese' is that it highlights the men's realization of the harsh realities of life and the arbitrary nature of their circumstances. It reflects their questioning of fate and the meaning of their existence amidst adversity.

Overall, the repetition of 'the sacred cheese' adds depth to the story, emphasizing themes of fate, mortality, and the existential ponderings of the characters as they navigate the treacherous sea.

Learn more about Symbolism in 'The Open Boat' here:

https://brainly.com/question/44186440