PSAT Reading Question 412: Answer and Explanation

Question: 412

Almayer's attitude as expressed in lines 31–33 ("It did . . . darkness") compares in what way to his attitude when he first set out on his journey?

• A. More optimistic
• B. Less troubled
• C. More hopeless
• D. Less honest

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

(C) Throughout the passage, we can see that Almayer still wishes for wealth but is constantly in despair because of his grim, impoverished circumstances. In comparison to the hopeful Almayer who "left his home with a light heart . . . ready to conquer the world," we can infer that he is now more hopeless than earlier in life when he never doubted his success. Now, he hopes for wealth but certainly has doubts and dark thoughts, making choices (A) and (B) incorrect. We have no evidence for choice (D), particularly because Almayer still considers himself to be very honest.