Question 12

Historical references to 'first sleep' and 'second sleep' suggested that waking in the middle of the night was natural and even enjoyable.

These references indicate that earlier sleeping patterns included two distinct sleep phases, with interruptions in between that were not only accepted but welcomed by individuals as part of a natural sleep cycle.

A) That waking in the middle of the night was natural and even enjoyable

This option is correct as the text highlights that historical documents refer to 'first sleep' and 'second sleep', indicating that waking during the night was viewed as a natural occurrence. People appreciated this break in sleep as useful and enjoyable, contrary to modern perceptions of such interruptions as problematic.

B) That people struggled with insomnia

This option is incorrect. The text suggests that waking in the middle of the night was not seen as a struggle or a sign of insomnia, but rather as a normal aspect of the sleep cycle. The idea of insomnia is presented as a modern issue that may stem from enforcing an unnatural sleep pattern.

C) That nighttime activity was considered sinful

This option does not align with the context provided. The extract does not mention any moral implications regarding nighttime activities; rather, it focuses on the natural acceptance of waking during the night, suggesting that such occurrences were not viewed negatively.

D) That people avoided sleep to work longer

This option is incorrect as well. The historical perspective shared in the extract emphasizes the enjoyment and utility of waking at night rather than suggesting that people avoided sleep. The context implies that sleep patterns were more flexible and accommodating to natural rhythms.

Conclusion

The evidence presented in the extract supports the idea that historical references to 'first sleep' and 'second sleep' indicate a natural acceptance of waking during the night, which was seen positively. Other options fail to reflect this understanding, aligning instead with modern misconceptions about sleep disruption and insomnia. Thus, option A is definitively correct as it encapsulates the essence of earlier sleeping patterns.