单选题 Washington Irving was America's first man of letters to be known internationally. His works were received enthusiastically both in England and in the United States. He was, in fact, one of the most successful writers of his time in either country, delighting a large general public and at the same time winning the admiration of fellow writers like Scott in Britain and Poe and Thoreau in the United States. The respect in which he was held was partly owing to the man himself, with his warm friendliness, his good sense, his politeness, his gay spirits, his artistic integrity, his love of both the Old World and the New. Thackeray described Irving as a "gentleman, who, though himself born in no very high sphere, was most finished, polished, witty; socially the equal of the most refined Europeans". In England he was granted an honorary degree from Oxford—an unusual honor for a citizen of a young, uncultured nation—and received the medal of the Royal Society of Literature. America made him ambassador to Spain. Irving's background provides little to explain his literary achievements. A gifted but delicate child, he had little schooling. He studied law, but without enthusiasm, and never did practise seriously.

单选题 What is the most proper comment on Irving?
A. His works were very popular in England and the United States.
B. He was respected by many fellow writers.
C. He gained respect in both countries not only for his works but also for his personal quality.
D. He is a gentleman.

单选题 According to Thackeray's description, which of the following statements is NOT true?
A. Irving was very well educated.
B. Irving's parents were not aristocratic.
C. Irving's social graces were unusual.
D. Irving was not inferior to Europeans of refinement.

单选题 Why is it unusual that Irving was granted an honorary degree from Oxford?
A. Because his degree was honorary, rather than earned.
B. Because he was not so successful as his fellow writers.
C. Because he was from America which was a country regarded as young and culturally primitive.
D. Because Oxford was a famous university in England.

单选题 What is true about Irving's background?
A. His background had provided opportunities for his literary achievements.
B. He spent very little time working as a lawyer.
C. As a gifted child, he had received good education.
D. His religious belief helped him a lot.

单选题 The tone of the author can be said to be ______.
A. serious B. mild C. friendly D. appreciative