Question

According to the author, a deconstructive study would be successful if it

• A. studies the artwork in reference to a fixed set of ideas and values
• B. Invests more time in observation of art work
• C. Is dispassionate about the literary work
• D. Takes into account the preferences of the author
• E. Focuses on the peculiar structure of the literary work

Hint:

Look for the core focus in the passage. In this case, it’s about analyzing the structure of the work.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Understand the main point of the passage.
The passage emphasizes the need for a critic to approach a literary work with objectivity and an awareness of its structure while laying aside their own biases and conditioning. The deconstructive study must analyze the peculiar structure of the work to understand what is present and absent.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) studies the artwork in reference to a fixed set of ideas and values: The passage rejects the idea of fixed perspectives in deconstructive criticism.
- (B) Invests more time in observation of art work: This option does not align with the passage’s focus on structural analysis.
- (C) Is dispassionate about the literary work: While being dispassionate is implied, the passage highlights structural analysis over emotional detachment.
- (D) Takes into account the preferences of the author: The passage doesn’t emphasize the author's preferences but rather the structural qualities of the work.
- (E) Focuses on the peculiar structure of the literary work: Correct. This aligns with the central idea of the passage, which stresses the importance of focusing on the structure to understand the work fully.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (E), as it best reflects the passage’s view on what makes a deconstructive study successful.