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Answer: ASet 1: Cross-Text Connections
Explanation
PASSAGE
Text 1 The poem 'Ozymandias' describes a shattered statue of a king in the desert. The inscription implies he was a ruler of great power who believed his works would last forever. Text 2 The surrounding desert is empty. The 'lone and level sands' stretch far away, showing that nature has reclaimed the king's empire, rendering his boastful inscription ironic.
How does Text 2 interact with the inscription mentioned in Text 1?
A. It undermines the king's claim to eternal power by highlighting the erasure of his works.✓ Correct
B. It confirms that the king's empire is still standing.
C. It suggests the statue was just built yesterday.
D. It praises the sculptor's skill.
Detailed Explanation
Text 1: Inscription = Last forever. Text 2: Desert empty/Nature reclaimed. Interaction: Undermines/Ironic.
Key Evidence:
• "believed ... last forever"
• "rendering ... ironic"
• "nature has reclaimed"
Why others are wrong: B (Empty.), C (Shattered/Ancient.), D (Focus on irony.).