Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What does juxtaposition achieve in a literary context?

1. It creates clarity by organizing ideas logically

2. It presents contrasting concepts to evoke surprise or wit

3. It simplifies complex themes

4. It establishes a chronological order of events

The correct answer is: It presents contrasting concepts to evoke surprise or wit

Juxtaposition in literature involves placing two or more contrasting ideas, characters, or elements side by side in order to highlight their differences and create a more profound understanding of each. This technique effectively evokes surprise, wit, or deeper emotional responses from the reader. When authors juxtapose contrasting concepts, they illuminate the intricacies and complexities of those ideas, allowing for greater interpretation and engagement with the text. The tension created by these contrasts often leads to richer themes and highlights the nuances of the characters or situations presented. The other choices focus on organizing ideas, simplifying themes, or establishing chronology, which are not primary functions of juxtaposition. Instead, juxtaposition thrives on complexity and contradiction, making it a powerful tool for emphasizing meaning and inviting reflection rather than providing straightforward or linear clarity.