Why did Rooster put Mattie's cup in the floor?

• A. He was teaching Mattie manners about accepting what your host serves you
• B. He tripped and dropped it
• C. He wanted to avoid spillage
• D. He was hiding the cup

Answer: (A)

The situation centers on how characters model politeness and grace under rough conditions. Rooster’s action of placing Mattie’s cup on the floor is a deliberate, nonverbal teaching moment about accepting what the host offers with gratitude, not fuss. In a harsh frontier world, true civility isn’t about luxury; it’s about showing appreciation for hospitality, no matter how simple it is. By doing this, Rooster is guiding Mattie to be modest, adaptable, and grateful rather than picky or presumptuous. The other possibilities don’t fit as well: the act isn’t about tripping, hiding the cup, or merely preventing spills—it's a purposeful lesson in humility and acceptance.