87. Which of the following themes is most clearly developed in the passage?

Answer: C

Explanation:

The desire to preserve memories

Wendy's efforts to remind John and Michael of their parents and their past lives illustrate a strong desire to preserve memories. She is concerned about their fading recollections and actively tries to reconnect them to their former lives through examination exercises.

A) The fear of the unknown

While there are elements of uncertainty regarding the future and the unknown aspects of Neverland, this theme is not as prominently developed in the passage. Wendy's primary concern revolves around keeping the memories of their parents alive rather than fearing what lies ahead.

B) The resistance to growing up

Although there is an underlying theme of childhood and the desire to remain in Neverland, the passage does not explicitly address resistance to growing up. Wendy’s actions are more focused on maintaining connections to their past rather than an outright rejection of maturity.

C) The desire to preserve memories

This theme is clearly developed in the passage as Wendy actively tries to fix the memories of their parents in John and Michael’s minds. She creates examination papers to help them recall their past, demonstrating her commitment to preserving their shared history and familial bonds.

D) The importance of education

While Wendy engages the boys in a form of education through her examination papers, the central theme of the passage is not primarily about the importance of formal education. Instead, it highlights her desire to keep the memories of their parents alive, which is more significant in the context provided.

Conclusion

The passage strongly emphasizes Wendy's desire to preserve memories, particularly as she tries to maintain the connection between John, Michael, and their parents. This theme is more central to the narrative than the other options, as Wendy's actions are driven by her wish to ensure that the children remember their past rather than fear the unknown, resist growing up, or focus solely on education.