Question

which of the following best combines sentences 9 and 10 for clarity and concision?
a in the end, both characters realize that ambition without morality leads only to destruction, and ambition, like the witches’ prophecies, promises greatness but delivers guilt.
b both characters realize that ambition without morality leads to destruction; ambition promises greatness but delivers guilt.
c ultimately, both characters learn that ambition—like the witches’ prophecies—offers the illusion of greatness but results in guilt and ruin.
d both characters realize ambition is bad and makes them feel guilty and sad.

Explanation:

To determine the best combination, we analyze clarity and concision:

• Option A: Repeats "ambition" and is less concise.
• Option B: Uses a semicolon but still has some redundancy.
• Option C: Combines the ideas (ambition's illusion of greatness, leading to guilt/ruin) clearly and concisely, including the "witches’ prophecies" comparison.
• Option D: Is too vague ("bad", "sad" is not accurate to the original context).

Answer:

C. Ultimately, both characters learn that ambition—like the witches’ prophecies—offers the illusion of greatness but results in guilt and ruin.