Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

type of literature is characterized by short stories, plays, and novels with a focus on the characters rather than the plot?

1. Historical fiction.

2. Gothic literature.

3. Romance.

4. Realism.

The correct answer is: Realism.

Realism is a type of literature characterized by short stories, plays, and novels with a focus on the characters rather than the plot. This is in contrast to historical fiction, which focuses on a specific historical time period, and gothic literature which often incorporates supernatural and romantic elements. Though romance often focuses on characters, it primarily centers on the romantic relationship between two people rather than the individual characters themselves. Overall, realism is the best choice as it specifically highlights the emphasis on character development and portrayal in this type of literature.