Set 1: Words in Context (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The novel's protagonist is portrayed not as a paragon of virtue but as a deeply flawed individual, whose ______ nature leads him to commit acts of both profound kindness and startling cruelty.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
Detailed Explanation
A character who swings between 'profound kindness' and 'startling cruelty' is unpredictable and changeable. 'Mercurial' means subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind.
Key Evidence:
• "acts of both profound kindness and startling cruelty"
• "deeply flawed"
Why others are wrong: A (Consistent implies steadiness, contradicting the opposing actions.), C (Stoic implies enduring pain without showing feelings.), D (Ephemeral means lasting a short time.).