Part A How do Gerasim’s actions at the end of the passage help develop the theme? By refusing a job he desperately needs, Gerasim shows that some people cannot be helped no matter what support is offered. By refusing a job he desperately needs, Gerasim shows that some people cannot be helped no matter what support is offered. By putting the needs of others before his own, Gerasim shows that acting with compassion toward others is its own personal reward. By putting the needs of others before his own, Gerasim shows that acting with compassion toward others is its own personal reward. By sacrificing any possibility of happiness, Gerasim shows that material wealth is meaningless and unimportant. By sacrificing any possibility of happiness, Gerasim shows that material wealth is meaningless and unimportant. By turning down a helpful offer, Gerasim shows that pride can stand in the way of a person’s success.