The Impact of Graff's Attention on Ender

Why is Ender upset by Graff singling him out and praising him in front of the other boys?

A. He doesn't like being the center of attention
B. He fears being targeted for jealousy and resentment
C. He is embarrassed by the praise
D. He thinks Graff is being insincere

Answer:

Ender is upset by Graff singling him out and praising him in front of the other boys because he knows that it will make him a target for jealousy and resentment from the other boys. Ender is aware that he has already been isolated from the rest of the group and this kind of attention from Graff will only exacerbate that feeling.

When Graff singles out Ender and praises him in front of the other boys, Ender's reaction is not one of joy or appreciation. Rather, he feels a sense of unease and discomfort. This reaction is driven by Ender's understanding of the dynamics of the group and his desire to not stand out in a way that could potentially make him a target.

Ender's response to Graff's attention highlights his awareness of the delicate balance of power within the group. By being singled out, Ender is put in a vulnerable position where he may face jealousy and resentment from his peers. This can create a sense of isolation for Ender, making it harder for him to form genuine connections with the other boys.

Furthermore, Ender's reluctance to embrace the praise stems from his desire to be seen as an equal among his peers. He values fitting in and being part of the team, rather than being perceived as superior or favored by authority figures such as Graff. This conflict between Ender's individual talents and his need for acceptance highlights the complexities of his character and the challenges he faces in navigating his place within the group.