Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How does a reader interpret a work from a specific historical or cultural perspective?

1. By researching the author’s culture

2. By understanding the settings of the work

3. By determining the implied values of the work

4. By analyzing the characters and their motivations

The correct answer is: By determining the implied values of the work

A Researching the author's culture can provide valuable context, but it is not the sole factor in interpreting a work from a specific historical or cultural perspective. There are other elements to consider, such as the themes and ideas presented in the work. B: Understanding the settings of the work is important, but it does not necessarily relate to interpreting it from a specific historical or cultural perspective. Settings may vary within the same culture or time period. D: Analyzing the characters and their motivations is another important aspect, but it does not fully encompass interpreting a work from a specific perspective. Other factors, such as the historical and societal context, should also be considered.