The purpose of the epiphany in "the first seven years" by bernard malamud a. is to provide a link of this story with its sequel. b. is to create a stark image of the failure of max's dreams. c. is to give the reader clues to determine what would otherwise be an unsolvable mystery. d. is to allow insight into feld's thoughts and predict what might happen after the story ends.

The correct answer is D. This epiphany is a decisive moment for Miriam's and Sobel's future. At this point, Feld realizes that he had tried too stubbornly to govern their lives. He realizes that he has no right to prevent his daughter from having a life of her own, much as he doesn't agree with it. Also, this epiphany makes the reader realize that Feld had had a dream to push his daughter into a better life than her parents had. The very last sentence provides a glimpse into the future - Sobel keeps working, with much patience and commitment. He is determined to work for two more years and gain the right to finally marry Miriam.