Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is an example of a technique used by authors to establish narrative control?

1. By providing detailed descriptions of characters and settings.

2. By using structural devices such as flashbacks and foreshadowing.

3. By creating a unique style that reflects the author's experiences.

4. By introducing propulsive characters whose actions shape the story.

The correct answer is: By using structural devices such as flashbacks and foreshadowing.

Structural devices such as flashbacks and foreshadowing are often used by authors to establish narrative control because they allow the author to control the pacing and reveal information in a strategic way. Option A may be used to establish a vivid world, but it does not necessarily give the author control over the narrative. Option C may create a unique style, but it does not necessarily equate to narrative control. Option D mentions characters, but it does not specifically address the techniques used by the author. Therefore, option B is the best answer as it directly refers to techniques used by authors to establish narrative control.