Question

Suppose this passage were written for an audience that was unfamillar with the legend of Robin Hood. The writer could most effectively strengthen the passage by: \begin{equation} \begin{array}{l}{\text { A. } \text { citing examples of legendary rebels from }} \\ {\text { Spanish and French literature. }} \\ {\text { B. including further evidence of Robin Hood's }} \\ {\text { actual existence. }} \\\ {\text { C. quoting a few lines from a Broadway musical }} \\ {\text { D. including a brief summary of the Robin Hood }} \\ {\text { legend. }}\end{array} \end{equation}

Short answer

Including a brief summary of the Robin Hood legend (Option D) would be the most effective option.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Passage Content

Determine the current content of the passage and identify any gaps in information for an audience unfamiliar with Robin Hood.

Analyze Options

Evaluate each of the provided options (A, B, C, D) based on the content of the passage and its intended audience.

Evaluate Option A

Citing examples of legendary rebels from Spanish and French literature is not directly relevant to explaining Robin Hood and would add unnecessary information that may confuse the audience.

Evaluate Option B

Providing further evidence of Robin Hood's actual existence would be helpful, but it might not be the most effective way to introduce unfamiliar readers to the legend itself.

Evaluate Option C

Quoting a few lines from a Broadway musical would likely entertain but would not serve to explain the legend to someone unfamiliar with it.

Evaluate Option D

Including a brief summary of the Robin Hood legend would provide essential context for readers unfamiliar with the story, making the passage clearer and more informative.

Determine the Best Option

Given the evaluation, Option D is the most effective choice because it directly addresses the need to introduce and explain the Robin Hood legend to an unfamiliar audience.

Key concepts

legend of Robin Hood

The legend of Robin Hood is a timeless story that has captivated audiences for centuries. It revolves around Robin Hood, a heroic outlaw known for his skills in archery and his unwavering sense of justice. Robin Hood is said to have lived in Sherwood Forest and robbed from the rich to give to the poor, standing up against the oppressive rule of the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The story has many variations and has been adapted into numerous books, films, and plays. However, the core elements—his merry band of followers, his love interest Maid Marian, and his battle against injustice—remain consistent. Understanding these elements is crucial to appreciating the legend and its cultural significance.

evaluating options

When it comes to enhancing a passage, evaluating options is key to determining the most effective way to deliver information to the audience. Let's break down the available choices:

• Option A: Citing examples of legendary rebels from Spanish and French literature. This would divert attention from Robin Hood and could confuse readers unfamiliar with the main topic.
• Option B: Providing evidence of Robin Hood's existence. While interesting, it's more of a historical debate and doesn't help explain the story itself.
• Option C: Quoting from a Broadway musical. This might entertain but doesn’t clarify the legend.
• Option D: Including a brief summary of the Robin Hood legend. This effectively introduces the story, making it the best choice for unfamiliar readers.

providing context

Providing context is essential when writing for an audience unfamiliar with a topic. In the case of Robin Hood, a brief summary would introduce the legend's key elements, setting, and characters.
This contextual information helps readers understand the significance of actions and events within the story. For example, knowing that Robin Hood fought against the Sheriff of Nottingham explains his motivations and actions. Similarly, introducing his merry band gives insight into his network of allies.
Without this background, readers might miss the story's nuances or misinterpret its themes.

literature education

Literature education involves exploring and understanding a wide range of texts, including legends like Robin Hood. Analyzing such stories teaches students about historical contexts, cultural values, and literary techniques.
Studying legends can also improve critical thinking skills. Students learn to evaluate different interpretations, recognize themes and motifs, and appreciate the story's impact on various media.
Additionally, discussing legends in class encourages engagement and curiosity, fostering a love for reading and learning. Providing clear and relevant information about a legend helps students grasp its cultural and educational importance.