In examining the impact of The Treaty of Tientsin on Chinese foreign relations, Sullivan and his team observed that the treaty, while easing some tensions, also imposed conditions that were _______ for China. These conditions included the opening of additional ports for trade and the legalization of the opium trade, which had long-term negative implications for China's sovereignty and economic stability.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

The Treaty of Paris, signed in 1898, ended the Spanish-American War and marked a turning point in global dynamics. This crucial agreement not only handed over Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States, but also significantly altered the political landscape of Asia. The shift in control of these territories fostered a new era of American imperialism, which inadvertently led to a substantial increase in Asia's geopolitical ________. The ripple effects of this treaty were far-reaching, instigating a series of political and social transformations and conflicts in the region that would ultimately shape the course of history.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

In analyzing the writing style of Jack Kerouac in his novel 'On the Road', Thompson and associates noted that Kerouac's approach was marked by _______ use of spontaneous prose. This method, reflecting a complex stream of consciousness and a disregard for traditional narrative structure, significantly influenced the Beat Generation and later literary movements.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

In Emily Brontë's novel Wuthering Heights, a fleeting glance exchanged between Catherine Earnshaw and Edgar Linton sparks an undercurrent of tension. This subtle interaction not only reveals Edgar's hidden feelings of jealousy but also suggests that Catherine is aware of Edgar's emotional state and is perhaps manipulating it. This moment—reflecting what literary scholars often term "subtextual communication"—highlights a technique Brontë uses to explore the complex interpersonal dynamics that drive much of the novel's dramatic tension.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?

The following text is adapted from Charles Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol.' Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Ghost of Christmas Present. "Spirit," said Scrooge submissively, "conduct me where you will. I went forth last night on compulsion and I learnt a lesson which is working now. Tonight, if you have anything to teach me, let me profit by it." The Ghost then smiled and, with a wave of his great hand, all the hideous and appalling things had vanished. As Scrooge looked around, he found himself in a bustling and joyous Christmas market.

Which choice best states the main purpose of this passage from 'A Christmas Carol'?