Humanities CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of opera?

1. To tell a story with music and words

2. To express the inner emotions of a character

3. To explore the relationship between music and drama

4. To explore ideas of the human condition

The correct answer is: To tell a story with music and words

Opera has a long history of storytelling, dating back to ancient Greece. It combines music, lyrics, and dramatic performances to convey a story and evoke emotions in its audience. While expressing inner emotions of characters and exploring concepts of the human condition are often aspects of opera, the primary purpose is to tell a story through music and words. Option B and D may be part of the storytelling process, but they are not the primary purpose. Option C may also be a component of opera, but it is not the primary purpose as music and drama are used to complement and enhance the storytelling.