Step-by-step explanation:
In the short story "The Open Window" by Saki, the narrator introduces the reader to the character of Vera, a teenage girl who creates a story to entertain her unsuspecting guest. The question of whether Vera is cruel in her actions must be examined. Through the use of manipulation, deception, and the exploitation of a situation, Vera's character can be seen as exhibiting cruel tendencies.
Vera's first action that leads the reader to question her character is her manipulation of the situation. She takes the unsuspecting newcomer, Mr. Framton Nuttell, and easily begins to create a story based on manipulating facts about him. As the story progresses, she becomes more calculating and adjusts her story to include Mr. Nuttell's anxiety. Vera weaves an intricate web of lies to entertain herself at Nuttell's expense.
Secondly, Vera's deception creates a situation that allows her to exploit Mr. Nuttell. By fabricating her story of the open window and the deceased family members, she causes Mr. Nuttell to become emotionally distraught. When Mr. Nuttell becomes anxious, Vera takes advantage of this situation by not allowing him any respite from her story. She uses his discomfort and emotional state to maintain the entertainment of her own pleasure.
Lastly, the climactic reveal highlights Vera's cruel intentions towards Mr. Nuttell. Instead of stopping her story, Vera takes a final jab at Mr. Nuttell as he flees in terror. "Romance at short notice was her specialty," she remarks, which indicates her cruelty and lack of remorse in manipulating Mr. Nuttell for her own entertainment.
In conclusion, Saki's character of Vera could be considered cruel due to her manipulation, deception, and exploitation of others. Her actions in "The Open Window" show that she takes pleasure in entertaining herself at the expense of others' feelings and emotions. Through her lack of remorse, Vera's cruel behavior is exposed. Overall, Saki's portrayal of Vera shows how individuals who enjoy the pain of others allow their enjoyment to override basic empathy.