Question

passage 1: the glitter and the grit of the gilded age
\wealth, luxury, and invention are the words that define the new century.
but beneath the glow of prosperity lies the labor of millions. tenements rise in the shadow of marble mansions, and the soot of factories stains the very air we breathe. while men boast of
progress, the citys poor die in crowded rooms with no light and no hope.\

• new york journalist, 1892

the authors tone in this passage suggests that the term \gilded age\ refers to:
a a time of genuine prosperity for all classes
b a period when america was covered in both moral and economic \gold\
c an era of surface - level prosperity hiding deep social problems
d a golden period of equality and innovation

Explanation:

The passage contrasts "wealth, luxury, and invention" (surface - level prosperity) with the harsh realities of the poor (deep - seated social problems like tenements, lack of hope, and polluted air). The term "gilded" implies a thin layer of gold (here, the appearance of prosperity) covering something less valuable (underlying social issues).

• Option A is incorrect because the passage shows that not all classes prospered (the poor suffered).
• Option B is wrong as there is no mention of moral "gold" in the context of the term's meaning here.
• Option D is incorrect since there is no indication of equality in the passage.

Answer:

C. An era of surface - level prosperity hiding deep social problems