Set 4: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

Postmodern critics argue that no text exists in isolation—every work is a tissue of quotations and references, consciously or unconsciously drawing from prior texts. This 'intertextuality' challenges the Romantic ideal of the original genius, suggesting that creativity involves recombination rather than creation ex nihilo.

What concept of authorship does intertextuality complicate?

A. Authors who cite sources explicitly.

B. The existence of literary quotations.

C. The idea that authors create entirely novel works from nothing.✓ Correct

D. Authors who work collaboratively.

Detailed Explanation

This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Challenges the Romantic ideal of original genius' and 'creation ex nihilo' = creating from nothing is complicated. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.

Key Evidence:

• "challenges the Romantic ideal of the original genius"

• "creativity involves recombination rather than creation ex nihilo"

Why others are wrong: A (Explicit citation isn't the focus.), B (Quotations exist—the issue is what they imply about originality.), D (Collaboration isn't discussed.).

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