Read the claim. claim: the great wave is the most historically significant artifact within japanese culture because it signifies japan’s hesitation to join the global economy. which statement is the strongest counterclaim to the claim? the great wave was made around 1830 by the great artist hokusai and is one of his series thirty-six views of mount fuji. since the great wave is a work of art, the idea that it signifies japan’s hesitation to join the global economy is simply one interpretation. there are other paintings that more strongly represent japan’s hesitation to open its ports and join the global economy. after receiving a letter from the president of the united states in 1853, japan quickly embraced the new economic model it had been forced to accept.

The correct answer is "Since the great wave is a work of art, the idea that it signifies japan's hesitation to join the global economy is simply one interpretation."

Art comprises abstract and subjective figures of the human mind, all materalized as concrete works, such as paintings in this case. It is because opinions differ a lot between artists that a single interpretation doesn't necessarily define the painting for everyone and/or the artist. Therefore, it may signify what the claim stands for to some people, but it remains just a single interpretation - denying the claim.

The other options cannot be considered correct since:

I agree with the previous answer. The correct answer is B) Since the great wave is a work of art, the idea that it signifies Japan's hesitation to join the economy is simply one interpretation.

The reason being that art is subjective, it means something different for every indivual as it is a reaction based and influenced by personal feelings, opinions, etc. Therefore we cannot affirm that this particular painting represents just one thing, for all we know the artist simply meant to portray the beauty of the sea.

Hope this helps :)

can i get the statements? if so ill be more then happy to !