Which of the following emotions is most commonly experienced by readers when they encounter suspense in a story?

• A. Boredom
• B. Contentment
• C. Relief
• D. Anxiety or anticipation

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of suspense in a story: Suspense is a state of mental uncertainty, excitement, or tension about what will happen next in the narrative.
2. Identify the typical emotional responses to suspense: Since suspense involves uncertainty and anticipation, readers often feel emotions related to heightened alertness or concern.
3. Evaluate the given options: Boredom and contentment are generally associated with calm or lack of engagement, while relief is an emotion experienced after tension is resolved.
4. Recognize that anxiety or anticipation aligns with the feeling of suspense because these emotions reflect the reader's eagerness and nervousness about upcoming events in the story.
5. Conclude that the most common emotion experienced by readers during suspense is anxiety or anticipation, as it captures the psychological state induced by suspenseful situations.