Correct Option: B. ingratitude Detailed Explanation: Understanding the Context: "The Choir Master’s Burial" is a short story by the Nigerian author, A. A. O. Adebayo. The narrative revolves around the themes of community, respect, and the often complex relationships between individuals and their societal roles. The story highlights the life and death of the choir master, who is a significant figure in the community, and the reactions of the townspeople to his passing. Why Option B (ingratitude) is Correct: 1. Character Analysis: - The choir master is portrayed as a dedicated and selfless individual who has devoted his life to the service of the community through music and leadership. His contributions are significant, yet the response of the community to his death reveals a stark contrast to the respect he deserves.

1. Community Reaction:
2. Upon his death, the community's reaction is one of neglect and indifference. Instead of honoring his memory and contributions, they display a lack of appreciation for his sacrifices. This ingratitude is evident in how they treat his burial and the absence of genuine mourning or recognition of his impact on their lives.
3. Themes of Neglect:
4. The story emphasizes the theme of ingratitude by showcasing how people often take for granted those who serve them. The choir master’s life is a testament to dedication, yet the community fails to reciprocate that dedication with respect and gratitude when he passes away.
5. Symbolism of the Burial:
6. The manner in which the choir master is buried symbolizes the community's failure to acknowledge his worth. The burial is not conducted with the honor that one would expect for someone who has given so much to the community, further underscoring the theme of ingratitude.

Why the Other Options are Wrong or Weaker:

• Option A (gratitude):
• This option suggests that the community shows appreciation for the choir master’s contributions. However, the narrative clearly illustrates the opposite; the community's actions reflect a lack of gratitude, making this option incorrect.
• Option C (devotion):
• While the choir master himself embodies devotion to his community, the term does not apply to the community's response to his death. The story does not depict the community as devoted to him; rather, it highlights their failure to honor his legacy, making this option misleading.
• Option D (spineless):
• This option implies a lack of courage or strength in character. While the community's actions may reflect a certain weakness in recognizing the choir master’s contributions, the primary theme of the story is not about cowardice but rather about ingratitude. Therefore, this option does not capture the essence of the narrative.

Revision Summary:

• "The Choir Master’s Burial" illustrates the theme of ingratitude through the community's neglect of the choir master's contributions.
• The community's indifference at his burial highlights their failure to honor his dedication.
• The story serves as a reminder of how individuals can overlook the sacrifices of those who serve them.
• Understanding character motivations and community dynamics is crucial in analyzing themes in literature.