Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

In literature, which of the following indicates a deeper meaning behind a character's actions?

1. Subtext

2. Symbolism

3. Dialogue

4. Foreshadowing

The correct answer is: Subtext

The correct answer is subtext, as it refers to the underlying meaning and context that are not directly expressed in the text. In literature, subtext often provides insights into a character's motives, emotions, and conflicts, allowing readers to comprehend nuances that the characters themselves might not explicitly express. This hidden layer enhances the narrative by adding depth to character interactions and actions, prompting readers to engage with and infer meaning beyond the surface dialogue or events. Symbolism relates to the use of symbols within the text to represent larger ideas or themes but does not directly address the nuances of character actions themselves. Dialogue serves as the spoken interaction between characters and may reveal information but may not always carry a deeper meaning. Foreshadowing is a literary device that hints at future events in the story, rather than providing an interpretation of current actions or motives. Each of these elements contributes to the richness of literature, but subtext specifically highlights the complexities of character behavior and emotional layers.