PSAT Reading Question 521: Answer and Explanation

Question: 521

The passage is best representative of what genre of world literature?

• A. Magical realism
• B. Short story
• C. Historical fiction
• D. Fantasy

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

(C) As indicated by the introduction, this excerpt is from a novel about the French Revolution. Further, the descriptions of events in the story are realistic. Thus, this passage is best characterized as historical fiction. Magical realism and fantasy would involve more fantastic elements. A short story would be self-contained, while this is an excerpt.