The following text is from an art history article.
Duchamp's readymades—ordinary objects presented as art—radically questioned the nature of artistic creation. By selecting a urinal or bottle rack rather than crafting a unique object, Duchamp challenged assumptions about craft, originality, and aesthetic experience. The works can be seen as either profound philosophical statements or elaborate jokes—perhaps both simultaneously. This ambiguity has made them endlessly productive for artistic and theoretical reflection.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To argue that Duchamp's works should not be considered art
To explain the significance and interpretive openness of Duchamp's readymades
To provide instructions for creating readymade artworks
To compare Duchamp's techniques with those of his contemporaries
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text explains the significance (questioning art's nature) and interpretive openness (profound or joke, endlessly productive).
- Evidence: The text explains significance: "questioned the nature of artistic creation." It notes openness: "seen as either profound... or elaborate jokes... ambiguity has made them endlessly productive."
- Reasoning: The passage discusses why these works matter—specifically because they are so open to interpretation.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to explain significance and openness.
💡 Strategy: Summarize: Is it art? Yes/No/Maybe -> That's the point.
Choice A is incorrect because artistic status isn't denied. Choice C is incorrect because no instructions are given. Choice D is incorrect because contemporaries aren't compared.