Question

why did strings and wind instruments become more popular by the end of the zhou era?
○ conservatives thought bells were a sign of debauchery.
○ bronze casting began to decline.
○ the purpose of music had shifted.
○ bells became too heavy to move easily.

Explanation:

To determine the answer, we analyze each option:

• The option about conservatives and debauchery is not a primary reason for the popularity shift of instruments.
• Bronze casting decline is not directly linked to string/wind instrument popularity.
• Bells' weight is not a key factor.
• During the late Zhou era, the purpose of music shifted (e.g., from ritual - oriented to more personal/entertainment - oriented), which led to the rise of string and wind instruments that were more suitable for new musical purposes.

Answer:

C. The purpose of music had shifted.