What critical event serves as a turning point for Katherina?

The critical event that serves as a turning point for Katherina in "Homeless Bird" is indeed her husband’s death. This moment profoundly impacts her life and catalyzes several significant changes. Following her husband's passing, Katherina faces a stark transformation in her circumstances, shedding her previous life and allowing her to embark on a journey of self-discovery and newfound independence. It compels her to navigate the challenges of being a young widow in a society with traditional expectations, pushing her toward resilience and personal growth. This event shapes her identity and decisions moving forward, making it a pivotal moment in her character development.

The other options do present significant aspects of Katherina’s journey but do not encompass the same level of impact as her husband's death. For example, her decision to leave her hometown is influenced by prior events and does not fully capture the emotional depth and change driven by this loss. Similarly, while meetings with mentors or gaining a new job might contribute to her development, they do not serve as the foundational turning point in the same way that the loss of her husband does.