Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

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A foil is a character or element that is used to....

  1. Represent what is moral

  2. Represent what is immoral

  3. Showcase the protagonist's weaknesses

  4. Highlight the protagonist’s strengths

The correct answer is: Highlight the protagonist’s strengths

A foil is a literary technique that involves contrasting characters or elements to emphasize certain characteristics. In this case, the foil is used to highlight the protagonist's strengths by showing a stark contrast with the foil's own weaknesses. Option A and B are incorrect because a foil is not necessarily used to represent what is moral or immoral. Option C may seem enticing, but it only presents one aspect of a foil's role, while the correct answer D covers the full scope. Additionally, C is specific to the protagonist's weaknesses, whereas D is a more general statement that can apply to any aspect of the protagonist. Overall, D is the best answer because it fully encapsulates the purpose of a foil in literature.