How does Bernard respond to the excitement, and what's his underlying motive?

How does Bernard respond to the excitement, and what's his underlying motive?

• A. Remains detached and aloof
• B. Tries to gather evidence to report to Mond
• C. Encourages the crowd
• D. Tries to save John and becomes involved in the riot

Answer: (D)

Bernard’s reaction is shaped by his deep insecurity and constant need for status. When the excitement rises around John, he doesn’t stay detached; he steps in to shield John, trying to intervene and pull him away from danger. This isn’t just heroism for its own sake—it's a calculated move to cash in on the moment. By acting as John’s protector, Bernard hopes to be seen as brave and important, using the situation to boost his standing in a society that rewards visibility and audacity. That push to gain prestige is why he becomes involved in the riot—his actions are about leveraging the spectacle to improve himself, not simply about careful observation or reporting.

Bernard’s reaction is shaped by his deep insecurity and constant need for status. When the excitement rises around John, he doesn’t stay detached; he steps in to shield John, trying to intervene and pull him away from danger. This isn’t just heroism for its own sake—it's a calculated move to cash in on the moment. By acting as John’s protector, Bernard hopes to be seen as brave and important, using the situation to boost his standing in a society that rewards visibility and audacity. That push to gain prestige is why he becomes involved in the riot—his actions are about leveraging the spectacle to improve himself, not simply about careful observation or reporting.