Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
Shakespeare still remains the most read and the most ______ performed of all dramatists.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. widely.
Context: The sentence talks about Shakespeare’s popularity, mentioning he is “the most read”. So, the word to be filled must reflect the extent of his performance. To describe the degree of performance, an adverb is needed.
Meaning of the words:
Casually means in a way that is informal or without much thought.
Narrowly means in a limited or restricted manner.
Mainly means primarily or chiefly, but not extensively.
Widely means over a large area or among many people. It is an adverb.
Correct word: Widely
Reason: The verb “performed” needs to be modified by an adverb to describe how or to what extent the action is done. Widely is the correct adverb form that expresses performance across many regions and by many people.
Casually describes manner, not extent, and doesn’t fit the tone.
Narrowly contradicts the idea of global fame.
Mainly is not a superlative or extensive term. It shows focus, not scale.
Widely alone matches the structure and meaning intended by “the most read”.
Final Sentence: Shakespeare still remains the most read and the most widely performed of all dramatists.
Hence, the chosen option will be correct.