Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question.
Passage:
Title: "The Dystopian Dilemma"
In the realm of speculative fiction, dystopian worlds serve as cautionary tales, presenting societies marked by oppression, despair, and the erosion of individual freedoms. These imagined futures, while captivating in their creativity, cast a foreboding shadow on the potential consequences of unchecked power and societal decay.
In the dystopian novel "Citizens of Desolation," the author paints a grim picture of a society governed by a totalitarian regime. Citizens live in a state of perpetual surveillance, their every move monitored, and dissent ruthlessly suppressed. The glimmers of hope that once existed have been extinguished, replaced by a pervasive sense of resignation.
Similarly, in the short story "The Last Sanctuary," the author envisions a world ravaged by environmental degradation and resource depletion. The remnants of civilization eke out a bleak existence amidst the desolation, their plight a stark reminder of the consequences of heedless exploitation.
While these narratives are works of fiction, they serve as potent reminders of the dangers of complacency and the need for vigilance in safeguarding the values that underpin a just and free society.
What is the primary purpose of dystopian narratives, according to the passage?
To provide optimistic visions of the future
To serve as cautionary tales about the potential consequences of unchecked power and societal decay
To celebrate boundless individual freedoms
To depict thriving communities with a strong sense of purpose
According to the passage, the primary purpose of dystopian narratives is to serve as cautionary tales about the potential consequences of unchecked power and societal decay.