D. declining
Popular architecture in the United States in the beginning of the twentieth century paid respect to elaborately ornate historical motifs. The new skyscrapers sprouting up at the time were often ornately finished with elements of Gothic or Roman detailing.
During this period of emphasis on intricate ornamentation, certain architects began moving in a different direction, from the historic attention to ornate detailing toward more modern design typified by simplified flowing lines. Frank Lloyd Wright, the best known of these early modern architects, started work in Chicago designing “prairie houses,” long low buildings featuring flowing horizontal lines and simplistic unity of design. These buildings were intended to fit the wide open expanses of Midwest plains that served as a setting for Chicago. These “prairie houses,” found in Chicago’s suburban areas, served to tie the rapidly developing neighborhoods of Chicago with its plains heritage.
16. What is the main idea of this passage?
(A) The architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright represented a change from earlier styles.
(B) Architecture in the twentieth century was very ornate.
(C) Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture was more elaborate than previous styles.
(D) Frank Lloyd Wright’s “prairie houses” were well-known in Chicago.
17. According to the passage, the new skyscrapers built at the beginning of the twentieth century were
(A) elementary (C) in a very modern style
(B) elaborately ornamented (D) completely Gothic
18. Which of the following statements about Frank Lloyd Wright is supported in the passage?
(A) He was extremely popular prior to the twentieth century.
(B) He used elements of Gothic and Roman detailing in his work.
(C) His architectural style can be seen in Chicago’s skyscrapers.
(D) His “prairie houses” were very different from the elaborately ornamented skyscrapers.
19. The “prairie houses” built by Frank Lloyd Wright were
(A) ornately detailed (C) skyscrapers
(B) built in the Roman style (D) long, flowing, and simple
20. According to the passage, how do Frank Lloyd Wright’s “prairie houses” resemble the prairies around Chicago?
(A) They were covered with grass.
(B) They were rapidly developing.
(C) They were long and low.
(D) They were in Chicago.