The phrase “romantic tales” and the word “romanticization” imply that Zane Grey’s books were popular because they
A) were sold as how-to guides for homesteaders from the East and Midwest.
B) hid the harmful aspects of American western expansion while emphasizing its allure.
C) demonstrated how readers could make a fortune hunting for ancient artifacts preserved by the heat.
D) were true stories about the lives of criminals and fugitives who traveled through the desert.
The correct answer is:
B) hid the harmful aspects of American western expansion while emphasizing its allure.
Explanation: The phrase “romantic tales” suggests that Zane Grey’s stories focused on idealized and adventurous themes, making the Western landscape and lifestyle seem glamorous. The term “romanticization” indicates that these tales may overlook the negative consequences of westward expansion, framing it in a more appealing way for readers. This tendency to emphasize allure while downplaying challenges aligns with option B.