Source: Extra Practice

Both 'His First Flight' and 'The Black Aeroplane' explore the theme of overcoming significant challenges. What is a common underlying element regarding the protagonists' ultimate success?

Options

Option A

Both protagonists received direct, miraculous divine intervention to save them.

Option B

Success was achieved primarily through sheer luck and coincidence without any effort.

Option C is correct

Overcoming a paralyzing fear and a strong will to survive, often spurred by external factors, led to their triumph.

Option D

Their survival was solely a result of meticulous pre-planning and flawless execution of escape strategies.

Explanation

In 'His First Flight', the young seagull conquers his fear of flying due to immense hunger (an external factor) and his parents' encouragement, combined with his innate instinct for survival. In 'The Black Aeroplane', the pilot's strong desire to reach home (will to survive) propels him through the storm, aided by the mysterious black aeroplane (an external, albeit unexplained, factor) which helps him navigate the immediate danger. Both narratives demonstrate that a combination of internal resolve (overcoming fear, will to survive) and external stimuli or aid is crucial in overcoming life-threatening situations. Attributing success solely to divine intervention, luck, or meticulous planning would be inaccurate for both stories.