Whom do the passengers inside the stagecoach represent?

Read the excerpt from chapter 30 of the awakening. the golden shimmer of edna's satin gown spread in rich folds on either side of her. there was a soft fall of lace encircling her shoulders. it was the color of her skin, without the glow, the myriad living tints that one may sometimes discover in vibrant flesh. there was something in her attitude, in her whole appearance when she leaned her head against the high-backed chair and spread her arms, which suggested the regal woman, the one who rules, who looks on, who stands alone. what does this excerpt reveal about edna's character? edna is comfortable wearing rich fabrics such as lace and silk, and feels completely at ease at the dinner table. edna plays the role of the gracious hostess very well, but is actually isolated from her peers. edna has no patience for her guests, but rather treats them as a queen may treat her loyal subjects. edna's attitude is haughty, as required of a woman of her social stature living in new orleans.

Which passage from the story best shows the author's use of surprise to advance the story? a. i'd have gone up to the boss and told him just what i think, tell him everything i would, let him know just what i feel b. "oh, god", he thought, "what a strenuous career it is that i've chosen! travelling day in and day out." c. and he looked over at the alarm clock, ticking on the chest of drawers. "god in heaven! " he thought. it was half past six and the hands were quietly moving forwards, it was even later than half past, more like quarter to seven. d. one morning, when gregor samsa woke from troubled dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a horrible vermin. submit

Is "they" an unstressed or stressed syllable?