Excerpt from The Crocodile’s Treason South African Folktale Crocodile was, in the days when animals still could talk, the acknowledged foreman of all water creatures and if one should judge from appearances one would say that he still is. But in those days it was his especial duty to have a general care of all water animals, and when one year it was exceedingly dry, and the water of the river where they had lived dried up and became scarce, he was forced to make a plan to trek over to another river a short distance from there What effect is accomplished by the author's choice to begin the story with this paragraph? A) It introduces the reader to the entire cast of characters who will appear in the story. B) It introduces the reader to the character of Crocodile, and emphasizes his particular importance in the story. C) It introduces the natural setting of the story in great detail. D) It showcases the Crocodile's essential lack of authority and control.

B) It introduces the reader to the character of Crocodile, and emphasizes his particular importance in the story.

The paragraph opens by establishing Crocodile as a central figure in the narrative, indicating his authoritative role among the water creatures. By mentioning that this was during a time when animals could talk and highlighting his responsibilities during a difficult period of drought, the text positions Crocodile as a significant character whose actions and decisions will likely drive the plot of the story.

Extra: Beginning a story with an introduction to a key character and their role is an essential technique in setting the stage for the narrative that follows. It helps to create a bond between the reader and the character and to establish the setting and premise of the story. When the author chooses to highlight one character in particular, as is the case with Crocodile in this folktale, it is usually a signal that this character will have a major impact on the events of the story, and that their actions, attributes, and decisions will be central to the unfolding drama. Introducing a character's role and importance can also provide insight into the themes of the story, such as leadership, responsibility, and adaptation to change, which may be explored through the character's journey. In folktales, especially, such introductions often serve to align readers with the cultural values and lessons that the tale aims to convey.