Given the historical context of The Land, how is the way Robert behaves toward Paul surprising? Since Robert is white, it's surprising that he treats Paul as his equal. Since Robert is white, it's surprising that he resents Paul's education. Since Robert is white, it's surprising that he is angry Paul sleeps at his house. Since Robert is white, it's surprising that he is happy Paul's being sent away.

Since Robert is white, it's surprising that he treats Paul as his equal.

Explanation:

In "The Land," by Mildred D. Taylor, Robert is one of Paul's white siblings and they are close friends. Thus, since Robert is Paul's younger brother, Paul usually takes care of him. Besides, Robert wishes people did not see them as half brothers because he is white and Paul is black. In fact, he says:

" ( ...) I'll tell you something, Paul. You don't feel no different to me than Hammond or George. I hate folks saying that word 'half' brother. How can you be 'half' of a brother? Either you're brothers or you're not."