What does understanding context enhance in literary texts?

Understanding context enhances the depth of meaning in literary texts by providing readers with critical information about the circumstances surrounding the work’s creation, including historical, cultural, social, and political factors. Context allows readers to grasp the nuances of themes, characters, and events, leading to a richer interpretation of the text. It informs readers of the author's intent and the societal attitudes of the time, which can significantly alter the way a story or poem is perceived. For example, understanding the historical context of a novel could affect how one views its characters' motivations or actions, thereby deepening the overall comprehension and appreciation of the narrative.

In contrast, other options do not align properly with the role of context. While it may add entertainment value or influence the number of characters, these aspects are secondary to the fundamental understanding provided through context. Length of the text is also not inherently affected by context but rather determined by the author's choices in storytelling.