Justice of the Peace Story Analysis

In 'The Whirligig of Life' by O. Henry, Ransie and Ariela Bilbro visit Justice of the Peace Benaja Widdup to request a divorce due to their inability to get along. Ariela demands alimony, which Ransie struggles to pay. Justice Widdup is robbed on his way home, losing the five dollars he received for the divorce. The next day, Ransie and Ariela reconcile and decide to remarry. Justice Widdup performs the ceremony, and the couple returns to their cabin, having learned the value of their relationship.

What is the setting of the story 'The Whirligig of Life'?

• The Sierra Nevada Mountains

• The Cumberland Mountains

• The Appalachian Mountains

• The Rocky Mountains

Why do Ransie and Ariela Bilbro visit the Justice of the Peace?

• To get married

• To file a lawsuit

• To seek a divorce

• To pay taxes

What does the Justice of the Peace say about the legality of divorce?

• It is strictly prohibited

• It is not mentioned in the law

• It is encouraged by the court

• It is only allowed in special cases

How much does Ransie pay for the divorce?

• Ten dollars

• Three dollars

• Five dollars

• Seven dollars

What does Ariela demand before the divorce is finalized?

• Alimony

• A job

• A new house

• A car

What does Ransie request from the Justice of the Peace regarding the alimony?

• A reduction in amount

• More time to pay

• To waive the alimony

• To pay in installments

Where do Ransie and Ariela decide to spend the night after leaving the Justice of the Peace?

• At a hotel

• At a friend's house

• In their car

• At Uncle Ziah's place

What happens to Justice Widdup on his way home?

• He finds a treasure

• He meets an old friend

• He is robbed

• He gets lost

How does the Justice of the Peace react to the five dollar bill Ransie gives Ariela?

• He questions its authenticity

• He refuses to accept it

• He immediately pockets it

• He notices it looks familiar

What do Ariela and Ransie discuss after the divorce is finalized?

• Their financial situation

• Their children's education

• Their travel plans

• Their future plans