Correct Answer: C) basic
Explanation:
The passage discusses different sources of information found in Pompeii, from detailed frescoes in villas to graffiti on walls. The word "rudimentary" is used to describe the graffiti. By contrasting the "detailed frescoes and mosaics" with the graffiti, the author implies that the graffiti is simpler or less sophisticated.
- A) artistic: This is unlikely. While graffiti can be artistic, the context here contrasts it with elaborate art forms like frescoes, suggesting it is less so.
- B) hidden: The passage doesn't suggest the graffiti was hidden; inscriptions on public buildings were clearly not hidden, and graffiti is often public by nature.
- C) basic: This fits perfectly. "Basic" or "simple" graffiti stands in logical contrast to the "detailed" and elaborate art found in the villas. It captures the essence of simple scratchings on a wall.
- D) humorous: While some graffiti might be humorous, the text gives no information to support this specific meaning. The primary function here is to describe its level of complexity, not its content.