Digital PSAT Reading and Writing Practice Question 20: Answer and Explanation

Question: 20

The following text is from Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 novel Uncle Tom's Cabin.

And suiting the action to the word, the door flew open, and the light of the candle which Tom had hastily lighted, fell on the face of Eliza. "I'm running away, Uncle Tom and Aunt Chloe-carrying off my child. Master [Shelby] sold him."

"Sold him?" echoed both, holding up their hands in dismay.

"Yes, sold him!" said Eliza firmly. "I crept into the closet by mistress's door to-night, and I heard master tell missus that he had sold my Harry and you, Uncle Tom, both to a trader, and that the man was to take possession to-day."

Slowly, as the meaning of this speech came over Tom, he collapsed on his old chair, and sunk his head on his knees.

The passage most strongly implies that Tom's reaction to hearing of Mr. Shelby's plans for him is one of

• A. unanticipated peacefulness.
• B. delighted relief.
• C. surprised despondency.
• D. playful mockery.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

(C) The final paragraph indicates that upon hearing the news, Tom is shocked and dejected once the full meaning of what happened became clear. Despondency refers to hopelessness and joylessness. His reaction is neither peaceful, relieved, nor playful so (A), (B), and (D) are incorrect.