Which contrast best captures the moral divergence between Finny and Gene?

• A. Finny's idealism and forgiving nature vs Gene's analytical, guilt-laden self-preservation
• B. Finny's cynicism vs Gene's naivety
• C. Finny's aggression vs Gene's passivity
• D. Finny's selfishness vs Gene's altruism

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how each character interprets morality and acts from that belief. Finny embodies idealism and a forgiving nature; he tends to trust others and expect the best, moving through events with a generous, unguarded ethic. Gene, on the other hand, is more analytical about people and situations, and after what happens he is haunted by guilt and driven by self-preservation, often finding ways to rationalize his actions. This contrast—Finny’s unprejudiced, hopeful morality versus Gene’s guilt-ridden, self-protective reasoning—best captures their moral divergence. The other options miss the deeper dynamic: they either mischaracterize Finny, or reduce the difference to cynicism vs naivety, aggression vs passivity, or simplistic selfishness vs altruism, none of which fully reflect the nuanced moral struggle between the two.