How do these stage directions add meaning to the play? The stage directions explain the historical time period. The stage directions describe Helen's manner of speaking. The stage directions show how characters react to Helen. The stage directions provide characterization of Helen.

This question is missing the excerpt. I've found the complete question online. It is the following:

Read this scene from The Miracle Worker Act 2.

HELEN in her customary unkempt state is tucking her doll in the bottom drawer as a cradle, the contents of which she  has dumped out, creating as usual a fine disorder.

How do these stage directions add meaning to the play?

The stage directions explain the historical time period.

The stage directions describe Helen's manner of speaking.

The stage directions show how characters react to Helen.

The stage directions provide characterization of Helen.

The stage directions add meaning to the play because:

D. The stage directions provide characterization of Helen.

Explanation:

Let's work with elimination to answer this question.

The stage direction we are analyzing here does NOT offer any information concerning the historical time period when the story takes place. We do not get to know the year or century through this particular stage direction. Thus, letter A can be eliminated.

Letter B can also be eliminated since the stage direction does not establish the tone or manner of speaking for the character. We do not know if she will whisper, scream, or speak normally.

Letter C is also incorrect because the stage direction only concerns Helen. There is no information about other characters whatsoever.

Finally, letter D is the correct option. The stage direction provides a characterization of Helen. In other words, we get to know a little about her - how she usually looks and the mess she usually makes when playing.

"The Miracle Worker" is based on Helen Keller's autobiography "The Story of my Life."