Answer: The correct answer is : John Steinbeck characterizes Elisa who is the protagonist, initially as a woman who feels comfortable with what she does on her husband's ranch. The writer describes her as follows: her face was scholarly and strong and her eyes were as clear as water, she feels that she is a very attractive woman. He defines her as a strong, talented and happy woman. But in spite of that he has dreams that he will never be able to realize.