PSAT Writing and Language Question 718: Answer and Explanation

Question: 718

Suppose the author is going to write an essay discussing the poem Beowulf. Based on the information in this passage, what would most likely be the tone of the Beowulf essay?

• A. Positive and appreciative
• B. Dismissive and skeptical
• C. Dogmatic and firm
• D. Neutral and disinterested

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) The author would like "Lay" to achieve the same recognition that Beowulf does. The argument is not that Beowulf should receive less recognition than "Lay" but that "Lay" is worthy of the same sort of recognition as Beowulf. Thus, the author's tone would most likely be positive and appreciative. Choices (B) and (C) are too negative, and choice D is too dispassionate.