In the days when the Church dominated everyday life, troubadours became well-known secular entertainers who could move beyond religious themes and explore love and politics. They were most popular between 1100 and 1350 A.D. Troubadours often entertained kings and queens at court and frequently enjoyed many of the pleasures and privileges enjoyed by the wealthiest members of society, which was at the time a very much a male-dominated world. But interestingly, entertaining as a trobairitz, or female troubadour, gave some women the opportunity to enjoy a prominent career in what began as a "males-only" field. Although their work is less prolific than that of male troubadours, surviving manuscripts clearly show that women were highly capable poets and musicians. Female poetry pertaining to love tended to offer a less idealized and more accurate conception than the poetry of their male counterparts. In addition, it showed a more conversational and less flourished style of writing. In this way, it intended to more closely depict a more grounded vision of relationships.
What is the author's purpose for the text?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Authors use nonfiction passages to inform (educate) their readers of something. They are written in the expository style. This passage informs readers about troubadours and trobairitz.
To persuade is incorrect. When authors want to persuade readers to adopt a certain stance or point of view, they often use persuasive language such as "you should…" or "you ought to…" This passage contains no persuasive language. 
To entertain is incorrect. Authors use narrative prose to tell stories. This passage is nonfiction. 
To describe is incorrect. When an author wants to describe something-a place or a person, for example-he or she will use descriptive language such as adjectives or imagery. This passage does not contain such language.

In the Days When the Church Dominated Everyday Life, Troubadours