Verbal
Commemorative plaques cast from brass are a characteristic art form of the Benin culture of West Africa. Some scholars, noting that the oldest surviving plaques date to the 1400s, hypothesize that brass-casting techniques were introduced by the Portuguese, who came to Benin in 1485 A.D. But Portuguese records of that expedition mention cast-brass jewelry sent to Benin’s king from neighboring Ife. So it is unlikely that Benin’s knowledge of brass casting derived from the Portuguese.
Which of the following, if true, most strengthens the argument?
(A) The Portuguese records do not indicate whether their expedition of 1485 included metalworkers.
(B) The Portuguese had no contact with Ife until the 1500s.
(C) In the 1400s the Portuguese did not use cast brass for commemorative plaques.
(D) As early as 1500 A.D., Benin artists were making brass plaques incorporating depictions of Europeans.
(E) Copper, which is required for making brass, can be found throughout Benin territory.
Question Discussion & Explanation
Correct Answer - B - (click and drag your mouse to see the answer)
Bonus RC Question of the Day
Quant
If two lines have slopes and
, respectively, are they perpendicular?
(1)
(2)
Question Discussion & Explanation
Correct Answer - A - (click and drag your mouse to see the answer)
