Question

how do paragraphs 9–12 help to develop the author’s ideas? a by describing the problem of a debt and its resolution, the author shows the flaws of the legal system. b by explaining the sequence of events, the author details how the printing press was constructed over time. c by comparing the different historical figures, the author examines key differences between gutenberg and his peers. d by moving between time periods, the author contrasts gutenberg’s despair with the historical success of his printing press.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: If the paragraphs don't focus on legal system flaws via debt, this is wrong.
• Option B: If the paragraphs aren't about printing press construction sequence, this is wrong.
• Option C: If the paragraphs don't compare Gutenberg and peers, this is wrong.
• Option D: If the paragraphs shift time periods to contrast Gutenberg's despair (e.g., during his struggles) with the printing press's later historical success, this makes sense. Typically, in texts about Gutenberg, such time - shifting to show the contrast between his personal hardships and the long - term impact of his invention (printing press) is a common narrative device. So D is the correct reasoning.

Answer:

D. By moving between time periods, the author contrasts Gutenberg’s despair with the historical success of his printing press.