The literary device used in the excerpt and the short story is theme, option A. Epiphany, a figure of speech in literature, indicates a moment of sudden revelation. Mrs. Mallard, the protagonist of this piece of work, realises the fact that freedom, in a society where the concept for a woman is almost impossible, can be within her grasp. Seeing the death of her husband as an advantageous way of leading a new possible life can be considered no less than a crime. The theme of freedom is present, despite the tragic means that carry it.
