Question

What is the central irony in the passage? Mr. Bounderby recounts a childhood of poverty, but he is actually very rich. Mrs. Gradgrind wants to show sympathy, but ends up making fun of Mr. Bounderby. Mr. Bounderby pretends to be humble, but he is in fact boastful and full of himself. Mrs. Gradgrind shows great sympathy, but she cannot tolerate the presence of Mr. Bounderby.

Answer 1

The correct answer for the question that is being presented above is this one: "Mrs. Gradgrind shows great sympathy, but she cannot tolerate the presence of Mr. Bounderby." The central irony in the passage is that Mrs. Gradgrind shows great sympathy, but she cannot tolerate the presence of Mr. Bounderby.