Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is a foil character in literature?

1. A minor character who causes dramatic tension.

2. A character who is a direct opposite of the protagonist.

3. A character who provides comic relief.

4. A character who has similar traits to the protagonist.

The correct answer is: A character who is a direct opposite of the protagonist.

A foil character is a literary device used to highlight and contrast the traits and characteristics of the protagonist. This is achieved by presenting a character who is a direct opposite of the protagonist in terms of personality, actions, and beliefs. This contrast helps to bring out the specific qualities of the protagonist in a more pronounced manner. Option A is incorrect because a foil character does not have to be a minor character; they can also have a significant role in the story. Option C is incorrect because a foil character is not necessarily intended to provide comic relief. Option D is incorrect because a foil character is characterized by having opposite traits, not similar ones, to the protagonist.