Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

How is an aphorism best defined?

1. A lengthy narrative about a moral lesson

2. A terse statement expressing a general truth

3. A detailed analysis of a character's motivations

4. A poetic form with elaborate imagery

The correct answer is: A terse statement expressing a general truth

An aphorism is best defined as a terse statement expressing a general truth. This concise nature is crucial to its identification, as aphorisms aim to convey wisdom or insights in a memorable way, often using brevity to enhance their impact. They encapsulate profound ideas in just a few words, making them easily quotable and relatable. For instance, sayings like "Actions speak louder than words" or "Less is more" exemplify the essence of aphorisms by distilling complex thoughts into simple, pithy statements that resonate universally. In contrast, other choices do not align with the definition of an aphorism. A lengthy narrative about a moral lesson suggests a more intricate form of storytelling, which does not reflect the succinctness of an aphorism. A detailed analysis of a character's motivations implies an in-depth exploration of psychological or narrative elements, again contrasting with the simplicity of an aphorism. Lastly, a poetic form with elaborate imagery resides in the realm of poetry and artistic expression, which is fundamentally different from the straightforward, often didactic nature of aphorisms. Thus, the focus on brevity and universal truths solidifies option B as the best definition of an aphorism.