Question

read the passage from \cruel tribute.\ \he is coming!\ cried theseus, and he ran forward to meet the beast. the seven maidens shrieked, but tried to stand up bravely and face their fate; and the six young men stood together with firm - set teeth and clinched fists, ready to fight to the last. the author builds suspense most by waiting to reveal the minotaur. describing the young men. describing the maidens. waiting to reveal ariadne.

Explanation:

To determine how the author builds suspense, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: The passage mentions "the beast" (the Minotaur) is coming, and the characters' reactions (Theseus running to meet it, others preparing to face fate/fight) create anticipation for the Minotaur's reveal. This delays showing the Minotaur, building suspense.
• Option 2: Describing the young men’s stance (firm - set teeth, clinched fists) is part of the scene but not the main way suspense is built. Suspense comes from the unknown beast, not the young men’s description.
• Option 3: Describing the maidens’ shrieks and bravery is also part of the scene but not the primary suspense - building device. The focus is on the approaching beast, not the maidens’ description.
• Option 4: Ariadne is not mentioned in the passage, so this option is irrelevant.

Answer:

A. waiting to reveal the Minotaur.