PSAT Reading Question 640: Answer and Explanation

Question: 640

The main purpose of including the Schrifterlass decree in the passage is to

• A. show how typefaces have influenced modern history.
• B. imply that blackletter was never very popular outside of Germany.
• C. illustrate hypocrisy in a Nazi policy.
• D. account for the final demise of blackletter.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) The last paragraph begins by citing the "lethal blow" that was dealt to blackletter as a result of the Schrifterlass decree, meaning that the wide use of blackletter came to an end. Choice (A) is too vague and broad. Choice (B) is not supported by the text since blackletter previously enjoyed widespread popularity. Choice (C) is incorrect because the Nazi approach to this ban is more absurdly nonsensical than hypocritical since what these -letters had to do with Judaism is unclear.