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American College Testing: English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing Questions 406–410 (page: 83)

Updated On: 9-Feb-2026

But man is not destined to vanish. He can be killed, but he cannot be destroyed, because his soul is deathless and his spirit is irrepressible. Therefore, though the situation seems dark in the context of the confrontation between the superpowers, the silver lining is provided by amazing phenomenon that the very nations which have spent incalculable resources and energy for the production of deadly weapons are desperately trying to find out how they might never be used. They threaten each other, intimidate each other and go to the brink, but before the total hour arrives they withdraw from the brink.

The phrase `go to the brink' in the passage means:

  1. retreating from extreme danger.
  2. declaring war on each other.
  3. advancing to the stage of war but not engaging in it.
  4. negotiating for peace.
  5. committing suicide.

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

The answer is C, because he wanted the war to start, but she wanted to keep peace and not show that he was encouraging it.



But man is not destined to vanish. He can be killed, but he cannot be destroyed, because his soul is deathless and his spirit is irrepressible. Therefore, though the situation seems dark in the context of the confrontation between the superpowers, the silver lining is provided by amazing phenomenon that the very nations which have spent incalculable resources and energy for the production of deadly weapons are desperately trying to find out how they might never be used. They threaten each other, intimidate each other and go to the brink, but before the total hour arrives they withdraw from the brink.

In the author's opinion:

  1. huge stockpiles of destructive weapons have so far saved mankind from a catastrophe.
  2. superpowers have at last realized the need for abandoning the production of lethal weapons.
  3. mankind is heading towards complete destruction.
  4. nations in possession of huge stockpiles of lethal weapons are trying hard to avoid actual conflict.
  5. there is a silver lining over the production of deadly weapons.

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

The answer is D, because the author clearly states the opinion of nations in possession of huge stockpiles of lethal weapons that are now trying hard to avoid actual conflict.



But man is not destined to vanish. He can be killed, but he cannot be destroyed, because his soul is deathless and his spirit is irrepressible. Therefore, though the situation seems dark in the context of the confrontation between the superpowers, the silver lining is provided by amazing phenomenon that the very nations which have spent incalculable resources and energy for the production of deadly weapons are desperately trying to find out how they might never be used. They threaten each other, intimidate each other and go to the brink, but before the total hour arrives they withdraw from the brink.

`Irrepressible' in the second line means:

  1. incompatible
  2. strong
  3. oppressive
  4. unrestrainable
  5. unspirited

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

The answer is D, because irrepressible means unrestrainable which means death or a dark side.



Greek mythology is a vehicle that uses mythological characters and creatures to teach people about the dangers, beauties and possible outcomes of life. In many myths, characters face moral dilemmas involving honor and practicality. The protagonists of epics face creatures that represent values and challenges such as respect, temptation and redemption. How has Greek mythology inevitably evolved with time and new story tellers? Scholars that have interpreted Greek mythology seek to maintain the universal values conveyed in these stories, while ensuring the validity of adapting these stories to their own distinct cultures. It is up to each reader to seek their own truths and learn from epic Greek mythology as best they can.

According to the author's description, which of the following is most likely to be a message from Greek mythology?

  1. Love is difficult, but it will last if the lovers are meant to be together.
  2. Resisting temptation and immediate gratification will lead to ultimate success.
  3. It is important to keep track of your personal history.
  4. Passing down Greek mythology has taken on a new form since oral records faded.
  5. It is not the fastest, but the longest lasting that wins the race.

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

Although almost each of these messages (except choice D) is valid and could be interpreted from Greek mythology, only one fits the author's description. The author explicitly mentions "dangers," "outcomes of life" and "temptation". Choice B clearly mentions temptation, which is a danger, and how it affects your outcome in life (ultimate success). Choice A and choice E are compelling choices, but the author does not make a direct reference to these lessons. Choice B is the best choice.



Greek mythology is a vehicle that uses mythological characters and creatures to teach people about the dangers, beauties and possible outcomes of life. In many myths, characters face moral dilemmas involving honor and practicality. The protagonists of epics face creatures that represent values and challenges such as respect, temptation and redemption. How has Greek mythology inevitably evolved with time and new story tellers? Scholars that have interpreted Greek mythology seek to maintain the universal values conveyed in these stories, while ensuring the validity of adapting these stories to their own distinct cultures. It is up to each reader to seek their own truths and learn from epic Greek mythology as best they can.

Which word best describes the author's account of Greek mythology?

  1. idealistic
  2. pessimistic
  3. dubious
  4. critical
  5. mysterious

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

The author describes the high moral lessons learned from Greek mythology and how epics can instill key values in readers. Though Greek mythology was also rife with sexual encounters and dirty human actions, the author conveys strictly positive characteristics about epics and their utility. Clearly, the author's account is idealistic. Choice A is the best. Because the author is neither pessimistic (choice B) nor doubtful, or dubious (choice C). Now one can look at choice A, D and E. The author does not really criticize Greek mythology; in fact, the author praises it. Also, the author's account, or description, of Greek mythology is not mysterious; although, the actual mythology may very well be mysterious. Only choice A, idealistic, captures the sentiment attached to the author's account of Greek mythology.



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