German composer Ludwig van Beethoven is remembered both for his master

OFFICIAL EXPLANATION

Overview:

In this question, the author of the passage provides the student with information about German composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who ultimately lost his hearing and yet continued to compose. The passage explains that the actual cause of Beethoven’s deafness has never been determined clearly and that there are a variety of theories. The most significant theory is that Beethoven consumed or absorbed high quantities of lead, which is known for causing deafness. Beethoven also manifested several other examples of unusual behavior, all of which have been connected to lead poisoning as well. But, as the author of the passage concludes, there are some who remain unconvinced. The question then asks for the answer choice that best explains why some continue to question the validity of lead poisoning as a diagnosis for Beethoven’s deafness. Selecting the correct answer choice requires the student to place each option against the context of the information in the passage, so the student needs to read carefully.

The Correct Answer:

C The fact that lead poisoning seldom leads to the variety of deafness that Beethoven developed—and the fact that Beethoven’s other instances of unusual behavior are not necessarily unique to lead poisoning—most clearly suggests the reason that many still question lead poisoning as the reason for Beethoven’s deafness. Answer choice (C) is correct.

The Incorrect Answers:

A The information about Beethoven’s childhood typhus certainly calls into question the firm diagnosis of lead poisoning, but answer choice (A) does not provide any explanation of the other symptoms that have also been linked to lead poisoning. As such, it is an incomplete explanation, so it is incorrect.

B Answer choice (B) is far too hypothetical to be a clear explanation for Beethoven’s deafness when compared to lead poisoning. As the answer choice does not argue that dunking the head in ice cold water has been known to cause hearing problems, but rather that it could have caused hearing problems, it is an insufficient explanation. Answer choice (B) is incorrect.

D As with answer choice (A), the information about tinnitus is useful and interesting. But without further information about the other symptoms that have been linked to lead poisoning, it is impossible for answer choice (D) to represent a satisfactory explanation. Answer choice (D) is incorrect.

E The fact that some argue in favor of a hereditary condition and an artistic temperament does not mean this constitutes a solid line of reasoning. It suggests instead the opinions of a few divorced from solid information to support those opinions. Answer choice (E) is interesting but weak as an explanation for the question, so it should be eliminated.
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German composer Ludwig van Beethoven is remembered both for his masterpieces of Classical and Romantic music and for the tragic loss of his hearing that still did not preclude him from composing. The exact cause of Beethoven’s deafness has never been determined, but historians and scientists have suggested several reasons, the most influential of which has become the discovery of very high rates of lead in Beethoven’s hair. Lead poisoning can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including irregular behavior, inexplicable rage, and deafness. Beethoven is recorded as having suffered all of these symptoms. Some, however, still question lead poisoning as a sufficient diagnosis.

Which of the following best explains the reason for why lead poisoning remains an unsatisfactory diagnosis for some?

We need to find "What could have lead to Beethoven's deafness when lead poisoning is not a sufficient diagnosis?" Basically, something that can explain why the reasoning of lead poisoning is not enough.

(A) Beethoven had contracted typhus as a child, and this disease can often leave the sufferer with deafness. - WRONG. Gives a possible alternative cause for Beethoven's deafness.

(B) Beethoven is known for having frequently dunked his head in icy water in order to maintain alertness, a habit that could have weakened his hearing over time. - WRONG. WRONG. Again similar to A.

(C) Lead poisoning almost never manifests itself in the type of deafness that Beethoven suffered, and his other symptoms are not unique to lead poisoning. - CORRECT.

(D) It is believed that Beethoven developed tinnitus, which made it difficult for him to hear music or to have intelligible conversations. - WRONG. Just like choice A and B.

(E) Some argue that Beethoven’s deafness was simply hereditary and that his irregular behavior and rage is the result of his artistic temperament. - WRONG. Similar to others except C.

Note: This is just like an odd-one-out kind of situation. So even if someone does not understand the passage going odd-one-out way can be helpful. However, not the best approach but a helpful weapon in the arsenal.

Answer C.
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