Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What trope often serves as a dramatic device to explore a theme?

1. Symbolism

2. Metaphor

3. Unreliable narrator

4. Foreshadowing

The correct answer is: Unreliable narrator

An unreliable narrator is a trope that is often used as a dramatic device to explore a theme. This is because an unreliable narrator adds an extra layer of complexity and uncertainty to the story, allowing the theme to be explored in a more nuanced and ambiguous way. Symbolism and metaphor may also be present in the story, but they do not necessarily serve as a dramatic device in the same way that an unreliable narrator does. Foreshadowing, while also a useful literary tool, is focused more on setting up future events rather than exploring a theme. Therefore, the best answer is C Unreliable narrator.