Meaning: 'Himself' refers to the person mentioned (in this case, Shakespeare) and is used to emphasize that he did not solely create his stories.

Wrong options:

• his own: This phrase suggests possession but does not fit grammatically as it lacks the reflexive emphasis needed in this context.
• he: This is a subject pronoun and does not fit as it does not refer back to the subject in a reflexive manner.
• him: This is an object pronoun and does not fit grammatically or contextually, as it does not convey the intended reflexive meaning.

Correct answer: keen

Explanation: The word 'keen' is an adjective that describes Shakespeare as an enthusiastic and eager reader, which fits well in the context of his literary pursuits. It aligns with the positive sentiment of the sentence, indicating his strong engagement with literature.

Meaning: 'Keen' means having a sharp or intense interest or enthusiasm, particularly in reading and learning.

Wrong options:

• descriptive: This adjective implies a focus on detail rather than enthusiasm, which does not fit the context of Shakespeare's reading habits.
• satisfactory: This word suggests adequacy but lacks the depth of interest implied in the context, making it unsuitable here.
• biased: This term indicates a lack of objectivity, which contradicts the positive portrayal of Shakespeare as an open-minded reader.

Correct answer: mere

Explanation: The word 'mere' serves as an adjective that emphasizes the idea that Shakespeare was not just an imitator or plagiarist, but rather someone who transformed his sources. This fits grammatically and contextually, reinforcing the distinction between imitation and originality.

Meaning: 'Mere' means nothing more than or only, highlighting that Shakespeare's work transcended simple imitation.

Wrong options:

• valid: This adjective suggests legitimacy, which does not fit the context of discussing imitation versus originality.
• vain: This word implies excessive pride, which does not align with the intended meaning of Shakespeare's creative process.
• coherent: This term refers to logical consistency, which is irrelevant in the context of discussing imitation.

Correct answer: outlook

Explanation: The word 'outlook' is a noun that refers to a perspective or viewpoint, which fits well in the context of Shakespeare's philosophical approach to his work. It aligns with the idea of broadening the thematic depth of his plays.

Meaning: 'Outlook' means a way of thinking about something, particularly in terms of philosophy or perspective.

Wrong options:

• enhancement: This noun implies improvement or augmentation, which does not fit the context of discussing a philosophical perspective.
• equivalent: This term suggests equality or sameness, which does not align with the idea of a unique philosophical viewpoint.
• estate: This word refers to property or social status, which is unrelated to the context of Shakespeare's literary themes.

Correct answer: copies

Explanation: The word 'copies' is a noun that indicates reproductions or imitations, which fits the context of the sentence as it contrasts Shakespeare's works with his sources. This choice emphasizes that his plays are not mere reproductions but original masterpieces.

Meaning: 'Copies' refers to reproductions or imitations of something, highlighting the distinction between Shakespeare's works and the original sources.

Wrong options:

• elements: This term refers to basic components, which does not convey the idea of imitation or reproduction in the context of Shakespeare's works.
• prospects: This noun suggests potential or possibilities, which is unrelated to the concept of imitation discussed in the sentence.
• vehicles: This word typically refers to means of transportation or methods of conveying something, which does not fit the context of discussing literary works.