Question

despite what limitation did whitman gain knowledge of major literary works?

lack of interest in reading

no formal education

limited access to public libraries

Explanation:

Analyze Whitman's educational background

Walt Whitman left formal schooling at the age of 11 to help support his family. Despite this lack of formal education, he was a voracious reader and largely self-taught, gaining deep knowledge of major literary works, Shakespeare, Homer, and the Bible through libraries and independent study.

Evaluate the given options

• "lack of interest in reading": Incorrect, as Whitman was an avid reader.
• "no formal education": Correct, he had very little formal schooling but educated himself.
• "limited access to public libraries": Incorrect, he made extensive use of libraries and museums to educate himself.

Answer:

• lack of interest in reading
• no formal education (Correct answer)
• limited access to public libraries